In a dramatic turn of events, a coalition meeting aimed at uniting Nigeria’s opposition heavyweights—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi—was marred by chaos and disruptions.
Held at the Abuja Continental Hotel on May 25, 2025, the gathering intended to strategise for the 2027 elections but instead highlighted the deep-seated divisions within the opposition ranks.
The Meeting: A Prelude To Pandemonium
The meeting, convened by the National Political Consultative Group (North), brought together prominent political figures to discuss pressing national issues, including security, unity, and leadership.
However, the agenda was quickly overshadowed by a dispute over representation from the Jigawa State delegation.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, announced a delegate to speak for Jigawa State, a move that was met with immediate protest.
Delegates from Jigawa vehemently opposed the appointed speaker, leading to a heated confrontation that disrupted the proceedings.
Security Intervention: Preventing A Political Free-for-All
As tensions escalated, security personnel, including police and State Security Service (SSS) agents, intervened to restore order.
They formed a protective barrier around key figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and others, ensuring their safety amid the uproar.
After several minutes of chaos, calm was restored when Mustapha Lamido, son of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, and another delegate were selected to represent the Jigawa delegation.
The Coalition’s Objective: Uniting Against A Common Foe
Despite the disruption, the coalition’s primary goal remains to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
The leaders discussed forming a united front to address the nation’s challenges, particularly in the North, where issues of poverty and insecurity are prevalent.
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However, the meeting’s chaos underscores the difficulties in forging a cohesive alliance among diverse political interests.
Public Reaction: Skepticism And Satire
The incident has sparked a wave of reactions from the public, with many expressing skepticism about the coalition’s viability.
Social media platforms were abuzz with commentary, some highlighting the irony of a meeting intended to promote unity descending into discord.
A Coalition In Crisis?
The chaotic events at the Abuja meeting raise serious questions about the opposition’s ability to present a united front against the ruling party.
If internal disputes cannot be managed during preliminary discussions, the prospect of a cohesive campaign appears bleak.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the opposition must address these internal fractures to mount an effective challenge. Otherwise, the coalition risks becoming a cautionary tale of political ambition undermined by discord.
