ABUJA – A significant Atiku Obi coalition meeting in Abuja descended into chaos Sunday as tempers flared over delegate representation. The event, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel and hosted by the National Political Consultative Group (North), saw prominent figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi witness the disruption firsthand. The core issue was a contentious disagreement about who should speak for Jigawa State.
Disputed Nomination Sparks Outcry
The scene turned volatile when Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, announced a specific delegate to represent Jigawa. This announcement was met with immediate and vocal opposition from other Jigawa delegates present. “We will not be represented by someone we did not choose,” one protesting delegate exclaimed, signaling the start of the Jigawa delegate protest.
Stage Stormed in Dramatic Standoff
Chaos escalated as several angered Jigawa delegates charged the stage. They physically prevented the nominated individual from addressing the gathering. This dramatic action brought the proceedings to a sudden halt. Security personnel, including Nigerian Police officers, DSS operatives, and private guards, quickly intervened. They formed a protective cordon around Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi as the atmosphere grew increasingly charged. “This is not democracy if our voices are ignored!” a delegate shouted amidst the Abuja political drama.
Calm Restored After Urgent Negotiations
After intense appeals and behind-the-scenes discussions, a measure of calm was painstakingly restored. The impasse found a resolution when Mustapha Lamido, son of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, was accepted as a representative for the state, alongside another agreed-upon delegate. Addressing the somewhat settled audience, Mustapha Lamido declared, “We are here for unity and progress, not division.” He urged all parties to refocus on the coalition’s broader objectives rather than internal disagreements.
By Kayode Ojo
