Abuja, Nigeria – April 8, 2026
Key stakeholders and prominent leaders of Nigeria’s opposition parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have convened an emergency high-level meeting in Abuja to address pressing challenges confronting opposition politics in the country.

The strategic gathering brought together influential political figures committed to strengthening democratic values and preserving the integrity of opposition parties. Among those in attendance were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Senate President David Mark, and former Minister Tanimu Turaki, alongside other senior party leaders.

The meeting comes amid growing concerns over internal crises within opposition parties, alleged political interference, and what stakeholders described as coordinated efforts to weaken opposition structures nationwide.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the session, participants expressed strong concern over what they termed persistent attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), in collaboration with certain elements within the Federal Government, to destabilize opposition parties through internal divisions, legal disputes, and administrative pressures.
The stakeholders warned that such developments pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic framework, emphasizing that a vibrant opposition is essential for accountability, transparency, and good governance.

Speaking during the meeting, Atiku Abubakar called for unity among opposition leaders, urging them to set aside personal differences in favor of collective action. He stressed that the survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the strength and resilience of its opposition.
Similarly, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso highlighted the need for internal reforms, urging opposition parties to strengthen their structures and deepen grassroots engagement to withstand external pressures.

David Mark, in his remarks, emphasized discipline, dialogue, and adherence to party constitutions as key to resolving internal disputes. He called on party members to remain calm and committed to democratic ideals.

Also contributing, Tanimu Turaki advocated for stronger legal safeguards to protect political parties from undue interference, urging vigilance among members to resist divisive tendencies.
A major outcome of the meeting was the resolution to establish a joint strategic committee comprising representatives from both the PDP and ADC. The committee is expected to harmonize party positions, address internal conflicts, and develop a unified roadmap ahead of future political engagements.

Stakeholders also agreed to expand consultations with other opposition parties, civil society organizations, and pro-democracy groups to build a broader coalition aimed at safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring credible elections.
Furthermore, the leaders called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and uphold the rule of law in all political matters.

The meeting concluded with a strong message of unity, resilience, and determination, as participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and providing citizens with a credible political alternative.