The National Political Consultative Group (North) meeting in Abuja witnessed a brief disruption on Sunday, May 25, 2025, after delegates from Jigawa State interrupted proceedings in protest over their state’s representation.
The high-profile meeting, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, had in attendance former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, among other prominent figures.
Trouble began when former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, recognized a delegate to speak on behalf of Jigawa State.
The decision sparked outrage from other delegates from the state, who stormed the stage, rejecting the individual’s legitimacy to speak for them.
Security intervenes as tension escalates
As the situation became tense, security operatives from the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and private guards quickly intervened, forming a protective ring around key attendees to prevent further escalation.
Following minutes of heated exchanges and appeals from stakeholders, calm was eventually restored.
To resolve the disagreement, Mustapha Lamido, son of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, alongside another nominated delegate, was selected to represent the state during the session.
The disruption briefly overshadowed the coalition meeting, which is seen as part of ongoing consultations by northern political leaders and presidential hopefuls ahead of the 2027 general elections.
