Amid deepening cracks within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, on Sunday arrived in Kano for a crucial closed-door meeting with the leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso.
A source privy to the meeting described it as crucial and high-stakes political consultation.
The meeting comes shortly after Makinde’s visit to Bala Mohammed in Bauchi.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the Bauchi meeting has further fueled speculation about an emerging realignment among key opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Credible sources within the political circle revealed that the Oyo governor is accompanied by Seriake Dickson, who recently parted ways with the PDP and aligned with the National Democratic Coalition (NDC).
Although details of the Kano meeting remain undisclosed, insiders hinted that discussions are centred on the possibility of a mass defection or the formation of a unified political platform capable of challenging the ruling party in the next electoral cycle.
“We might move to NNPP or everyone to a single party,” a source close to the negotiations disclosed.
The source equally disclosed that the talks are exploring both consolidation and coalition strategies.
The PDP, once regarded as Nigeria’s dominant opposition force, has in recent months been plagued by internal disputes, leadership tussles, and ideological divisions, prompting fears of further fragmentation if reconciliation efforts fail.
Makinde, considered one of the influential voices within the party’s southern bloc, has maintained a cautious stance publicly and repeatedly calling for internal reforms while avoiding outright confrontation with the party leadership.
Kwankwaso, on his part, remains a central figure in the NNPP and a potential rallying point for disaffected politicians seeking an alternative political structure.
The source said the outcome of the Kano meeting could significantly shape the trajectory of opposition politics in Nigeria, particularly if it results in a broad-based alliance or triggers a wave of defections from the PDP.