Factional national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Tanimu Turaki, has said he led a delegation of party members on a solidarity visit to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) faction led by David Mark.

Turaki described the visit as a significant moment of reflection and a shared commitment to protecting Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement posted on his X page, he said the meeting brought together prominent political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and other ADC leaders, with discussions focused on the common challenges facing opposition parties in the country.

He noted that the engagement highlighted a growing recognition among opposition figures of the need for unity in the face of increasing political pressure.

The PDP delegation included notable members such as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Adolphus Wabara, and founding member and former Minister of Information, Jerry Gana.

Turaki said the discussions were frank and centred on the political headwinds confronting opposition parties, which he described as part of a broader trend threatening democratic plurality in Nigeria.

He added that both parties expressed a shared resolve to defend democratic principles, emphasising the importance of preserving space for dissenting voices and maintaining a strong opposition.

According to him, the visit reflects a collective responsibility among political actors to prioritise national interest, uphold democratic values, and work towards a more inclusive political future.

The statement read: “Yesterday, I had the honour of leading a delegation of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on a solidarity visit to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). It was more than just a formal engagement—it was a moment of reflection, shared concern, and a reaffirmation of our collective duty to protect Nigeria’s democracy.

“As we sat across from respected leaders such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and other ADC leaders. There was a clear and sobering understanding: the challenges facing opposition parties in Nigeria today are real, shared, and demand unity of purpose.

“In leading this delegation, which included distinguished figures like His Excellency Seyi Makinde, Adolphus Wabara Former Senate President, and Prof. Jerry Gana, I felt a deep sense of responsibility. Not just to represent the PDP, but to stand in defence of democratic ideals that transcend party lines.

“We spoke candidly about the pressures and political headwinds confronting opposition parties. These are not isolated experiences; they are part of a broader pattern that threatens the very essence of political plurality in our country. And having witnessed similar challenges within our own party, we came not just in solidarity, but in shared resolve.

“What stood out most was the spirit of mutual respect and understanding. Despite our different political platforms, there was a strong consensus: democracy must be protected, voices must not be silenced, and the space for healthy opposition must remain open and vibrant.

“This visit was a reminder that beyond politics, there is a higher responsibility—to Nigeria, to its people, and to the future we all hope to build.” (BusinessDay)

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