Why I Met  Governor Makinde – Peter Obi

Labour Party’s former presidential candidate Peter Obi reaffirmed his vision of a united, secure, and prosperous Nigeria on Tuesday, following a private meeting with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in Ibadan.

The meeting, which lasted about two hours, took place at the Oyo State Secretariat as consultations among opposition figures continue to gather momentum ahead of future political alignments.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Obi described the visit as part of broader consultations with key stakeholders on Nigeria’s future.

“We have come to consult and to continue discussions with His Excellency, the Governor, on issues that concern the future of our country. My dear brother, the Governor, and I shared a common belief that Nigeria must work for everyone, and that is the focus of our engagement,” he said.

The meeting came barely 72 hours after a high-level opposition political parties’ summit held in Ibadan, which brought together prominent political actors across the country.

Obi’s visit also followed his recent engagement with former President Goodluck Jonathan, signalling ongoing high-level consultations linked to possible political realignments.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that the discussions were beyond political manoeuvring and centred on nation-building.

“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. 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,” Obi said.

Obi emphasised the need for inclusivity and equal opportunity, noting that his vision is a system where individuals can succeed regardless of background.

“In Nigeria, where a nobody can be somebody without knowing anybody,” he stated.

He also highlighted the need for economic reforms, particularly shifting Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based one.

“We are looking at a more united, secure, progressive Nigeria, where we will move the country from consumption to production, and get our people employed in everything,” he added.