Peter Obi Defies Convention, Says His Meeting with Makinde Goes Beyond Politics

Former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has stated that the opposition's efforts are driven by a desire to build a better Nigeria, rather than mere political posturing, as he reiterated his vision of a more united, secure and productive Nigeria.

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Obi made these remarks on Tuesday, following a private meeting with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan, which lasted nearly two hours at the Oyo State Secretariat and was part of ongoing consultations focused on Nigeria’s future.

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According to Obi, the meeting with Governor Makinde was part of broader discussions with key stakeholders on national issues and the need for collaboration across party lines, as the opposition continues to explore future political alignments.

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Speaking to journalists, Obi explained that his visit was aimed at consulting with the governor on issues related to the country's future, saying "We have come to consult and to continue discussions with His Excellency the Governor on issues that concern the future of our country."

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Obi also emphasized that he and Governor Makinde share a common goal of building a Nigeria that works for everyone, stating "My dear brother, the governor, and I share a common belief that Nigeria must work for everyone, and that is the focus of our engagement."

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He noted that the discussions were centered on fostering a stronger nation and promoting meaningful coalition efforts ahead of future elections, rather than mere political manoeuvres, saying "What we are doing is not about politics for its own sake, it is about Nigeria and how we can build a better nation for all our people."

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Obi outlined his vision of a Nigeria that is united, secure, and progressive, where every citizen has a fair chance to succeed based on merit and hard work, rather than connections, saying "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, not connections."

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He stressed the importance of national development and shared purpose, saying "How do we build a better Nigeria, a Nigeria where we will all be proud to save that country," and highlighting the need to rethink priorities to build a country citizens can be proud of.

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Obi also emphasized the need for a system where success is based on merit rather than personal connections, saying "In Nigeria, where a chance of nobody can be somebody without knowing anybody."

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Regarding the expected outcome of the consultations, Obi maintained that the ultimate objective remains the progress and unity of the country, saying "So, with this correlation, what should I get out of here? A better Nigeria."

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He outlined the need for economic transformation, particularly a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one focused on production and job creation, saying "And a more united, secure, progressive Nigeria, where we are going to move the country from consumption to production, and get our people employed."

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The meeting with Governor Makinde came barely 72 hours after a high-level opposition summit held in Ibadan, which brought together prominent political actors and stakeholders from across the country.

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Obi's visit to Ibadan also followed his recent engagement with former President Goodluck Jonathan, further signalling a series of high-level discussions linked to broader political realignments.