President Muhammadu Buhari has met with leaders of the two main political parties in Nigeria, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The APC delegation was led by the Chairman of the party, John Odigie Oyegun, Former Senate President Ken Nnamani, Former Information Minister Tony Momoh, Former Governor of Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva, and Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, among others.
While for the PDP, was the Chairman of the Caretaker committee of the party Ahmed Makarfi, Senator Ben Obi, Senator Stella Omu, Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo, and Professor T. Adeniran.
“This visit signifies the unity of Nigeria. It is not a party occasion. It is not a political gathering. It is a symbol of our national unity. It is also an expression of the maturity of our democracy,” the President told the party leaders at the meeting.
“Multi-party democracy is a very tried and tested form of government. Opposition does not mean hostility, enmity or antagonism. Democracy needs opposition, one which is vibrant but responsible.”
President Buhari thanked the party leaders for making the trip to Abuja to welcome him home and called on them to tell Nigerians in their respective states that he is grateful to them for praying for his recovery.
Beyond that, the President appealed to citizens to “continue praying for peace and prosperity in the country”.
At the meeting, Mr Oyegun, “By this meeting, PMB has sent out a message that he’s President of all Nigerians, regardless of party/religion/ethnicity.”
On the part of Markafi, “We assure you of as much cooperation as an opposition party can give, after all the role of the opposition is to take over power.
“PDP ready to offer legitimate, decent opposition. We will do this to keep govt in check, but ultimately for the benefit of Nigeria
“We will never wish ill of anyone, not to talk of the person saddled with the responsibility of leading Nigeria.
“We believe the President of our country — regardless of what party flag he or she flies — is our President.
“The entire family of PDP joins compatriots in welcoming you back from your medical vacation. We thank God for your recovery”.
The President in his response added that “Opposition does not mean hostility, enmity or antagonism. Democracy needs opposition, one which is vibrant but responsible.”
“Opposition does not mean hostility,enmity or antagonism. Democracy needs opposition, one which is vibrant but responsible.” ~ Pres @MBuhari
— Presidency Nigeria (@NGRPresident) August 25, 2017
The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo was also in attendance.
This is the first meeting bringing both parties together since the inception of the Buhari administration.
