Atiku, Kwankwaso, Amaechi, other opposition heavyweights gather in Ibadan summit

By Adeola Badru

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has arrived in Ibadan for a high-level opposition political leaders’ summit hosted by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

He joined an influential assembly of political heavyweights already in the city, including former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

The summit, currently underway in Ibadan, has drawn a broad spectrum of opposition stakeholders from across Nigeria.

Discussions are expected to centre on pressing national issues, emerging political alignments, and strategic preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Also in attendance included Peter Obi, David Mark, Professor Jerry Gana, factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Saminu Turaki, and political strategist Pat Utomi.

Their convergence underscored the breadth of engagement across opposition blocs.

The gathering has intensified political attention nationwide, with analysts closely monitoring it for indications of potential coalition-building among opposition parties and leaders.

Security has been significantly tightened across key areas of Ibadan as the summit progresses, reflecting the prominence of the attendees and the sensitivity of the discussions.

Political observers suggested that the convergence may represent an early but significant step towards forging a more coordinated opposition front ahead of the 2027 polls, as key actors test alliances and explore shared political interests.

Meanwhile, the outcome of the summit is expected to shape ongoing debates around leadership direction, party strategy, and the broader reconfiguration of opposition politics as Nigeria moves steadily towards another major electoral cycle.