A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday held a high-level meeting with leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, as part of ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sources familiar with the discussions said the closed-door meeting, held at Mark’s residence in Abuja, focused on building a strategic alliance aimed at unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Talks reportedly covered issues such as a possible joint platform, power-sharing arrangements, and terms of collaboration.
However, the camp aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, swiftly distanced the PDP from any such alliance.
In a statement issued by its National Working Committee, the faction dismissed reports of a formal partnership with the ADC, insisting that no official meeting had been authorised by the party.
Speaking after the meeting, Makinde described the gathering as a “show of solidarity,” noting that opposition figures were increasingly concerned about developments within Nigeria’s political space.
He, however, declined to confirm whether a formal alliance had been sealed.
Prominent opposition figures present at the meeting included Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Aminu Tambuwal, among others.
Insiders said the leaders agreed in principle to work together to provide a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections, amid concerns over what they described as increasing pressure on opposition parties.
A final decision on the platform to be used whether PDP, ADC, or another coalition vehicle is expected in the coming days.
Meanwhile, both the PDP and ADC continue to grapple with internal crises, including leadership disputes and ongoing court cases.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier removed the Mark-led ADC leadership from its records, citing a court order to maintain the status quo pending legal proceedings.
The meeting came shortly after opposition leaders staged a protest in Abuja, demanding that INEC recognise the Mark-led ADC leadership and accusing the commission of bias.
Protesters also called for the resignation of the INEC chairman, alleging interference in party affairs.
In response, the Wike-backed PDP faction reiterated that the party remains focused on its internal processes, including preparations for its primaries, and urged members to disregard reports suggesting any formal alliance with the ADC.
