A high-profile political coalition meeting in Abuja descended into chaos on Saturday when delegates from Jigawa State clashed over representation issues, temporarily disrupting proceedings that included prominent Nigerian political figures.
The meeting, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel and organized by the National Political Consultative Group (North), brought together key political figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party leader Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
Trouble began when former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, appointed a representative to speak on behalf of Jigawa State without proper consultation. This unilateral decision triggered immediate protests from the Jigawa delegation, who stormed the stage demanding proper representation.
The situation quickly escalated, necessitating intervention from security personnel including officers from the Nigerian Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and private security. They formed a protective cordon around high-profile attendees, particularly Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi.
"The Jigawa delegates were adamant that they would not accept any representation without being consulted first," a source at the meeting revealed.
Order was eventually restored following appeals from various stakeholders. A compromise was reached with the selection of Mustapha Lamido, son of former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido, alongside another delegate to jointly represent the state's interests.
This incident highlights the delicate nature of ongoing coalition-building efforts among opposition figures in Nigeria, as they navigate complex regional sensitivities and power dynamics ahead of potential political realignments.
The meeting continues as part of broader consultations among political leaders, particularly from northern Nigeria, as they explore possible alliances and strategies for future electoral contests.
