Chaos erupts at Atiku-Obi coalition meeting as Jigawa delegates clash over representation

A high-stakes political coalition meeting involving key Nigerian figures such as former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party leader Peter Obi, and ex-Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi descended into chaos on Saturday following  a delegation dispute involving Jigawa State.

The meeting, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel and organized by the National Political Consultative Group (North), was temporarily disrupted when former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, named a representative to speak for Jigawa State.

This announcement triggered an uproar among Jigawa delegates, who stormed the stage in protest, rejecting the appointed spokesperson and insisting they would not be represented without proper consultation. The tense situation prompted the swift intervention of security personnel, including members of the Nigerian Police, DSS, and private security, who formed a protective shield around prominent figures like Atiku and Amaechi.

Calm was eventually restored after appeals from several stakeholders. A compromise was reached with the selection of Mustapha Lamido—son of former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido—alongside another delegate to represent the state.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the coalition efforts, as major political players navigate sensitive regional dynamics ahead of potential realignments.