Earlier today that President Muhammadu Buhari met with leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the banquet hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The meeting which started at about 11:00 am was attended by vice-president Yemi Osinbajo, John Odigie-Oyegun, national chairman of the APC; and Ahmed Makarfi, caretaker chairman of the PDP. Others in attendance are Muiz Banire, national legal adviser of the APC, Olorunnimbe Mamora, Tony Momoh, Ben Obi, and Ken Nnamani.
Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee, Ahmed Makarfi, and other party leader leaders were captured on camera as they arrived for the meeting.
President Buhari in his remarks described the visit by the two main political parties as signifying the unity of the country and noted that a democracy needs a vibrant but responsible opposition, adding that opposition does not translate to hostility and antagonism. Buhari thanked all Nigerians for praying for his recovery and asked them to continue to pray for the peace and prosperity of the country.
“I thank you sincerely, collectively and individually for finding time from your busy schedules to come all the way to Abuja and welcome me back home,” the President said.“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.
“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.“I am very pleased to see you assembled here all shades of opinion in Nigeria. Please convey to our countrymen and women in your respective states my deep gratitude to all those who prayed for my recovery. I am imploring all Nigerians to continue praying for peace and prosperity in Nigeria.” Makarfi promised that the PDP will continue to support Buhari in his efforts aimed at moving the nation forward.
