IBADAN — Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), on Tuesday met with Seyi Makinde in Ibadan, as opposition figures continue consultations that could shape future political alignments in Nigeria.
The closed-door meeting, held at the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, lasted for more than two hours and focused on national issues, including economic reform, security and political cooperation.
The visit came a day after Obi met with former president Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja, in what analysts see as part of a broader round of engagements among key opposition leaders.
Focus on National Unity and Economic Reform
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Obi said discussions with Makinde centred on building a more inclusive and productive Nigeria.
“We came to consult and continue discussions with His Excellency on issues that concern the future of our country,” Obi said. “My brother, the governor, and I share a common belief that Nigeria must work for everyone.”
He added that the talks were not driven by “politics for its own sake” but by the need to address structural challenges facing the country.
Obi reiterated his call for a merit-based society and a shift in economic policy.
“We are looking at a Nigeria that is united, secure and progressive, where every citizen has a fair chance to succeed based on merit and hard work,” he said.
He also stressed the need to move the economy from consumption to production as a way to tackle unemployment and drive sustainable growth.
Opposition Consultations Gather Momentum
Tuesday’s meeting follows an opposition summit hosted by Makinde in Ibadan days earlier, which brought together political actors from across Nigeria.
Obi, who joined the ADC in December 2025 and formally registered in March 2026, has been actively engaging political stakeholders amid speculation over possible alliances ahead of future elections.
While details of any potential coalition remain unclear, analysts say such consultations suggest efforts to consolidate opposition forces in response to the ruling party’s dominance.
APC Urges Youths to Defend Democracy
Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, called on Nigerian youths to play a greater role in safeguarding the country’s democracy.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Yilwatda described young people as a “critical force” for sustaining political stability and warned against what he termed “self-serving political actors.”
“Nigeria’s democracy is at a defining moment. The responsibility to defend and consolidate it rests heavily on our youths,” he said.
He urged citizens, particularly those aged between 25 and 55, to take ownership of the democratic process and resist attempts to undermine ongoing reforms.
Defence of Reforms Under Tinubu
Yilwatda defended economic and structural reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging that they have involved “difficult adjustments” but insisting they are necessary for long-term growth.
He said early indicators suggest improvements in fiscal stability and investor confidence, citing increased interest in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology and manufacturing.
The APC chairman also pointed to what he described as growing international support for Nigeria’s reform agenda, including positive signals from institutions such as the World Bank.
