Politics

Why PDP leaders met with David Mark-led ADC – Turaki

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 David Mark-led African Democratic Congress, ADC.

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

In a statement on his X page, Turaki said the meeting brought together key political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and other ADC leaders, with discussions centred on the common challenges confronting opposition parties in the country.

According to him, the visit underscored a growing recognition among opposition figures of the need for unity in addressing what he described as mounting political pressures.

The PDP delegation included prominent party members such as Ondo governor Seyi Makinde, Board of Trustees, BOT chairman Adolphus Wabara and founding member, former Information Minister Jerry Gana.

Turaki noted that discussions during the meeting were frank, focusing on the political headwinds facing opposition parties, which he said reflect a broader pattern affecting democratic plurality in Nigeria.

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

The PDP chieftain further described the visit as a demonstration of collective responsibility among political actors to prioritise national interest, protect 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.”