It was nothing but a show of love for the nation as President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday met with the leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party in a rare bipartisan meeting ever presided over by Buhari.

The meeting was attended by John Odigie-Oyegun, Chairman of the APC and his PDP counterpart, Ahmed Makarfi both of whom were escorted into the Presidential Villa by a horde of their respective members. Also in attendance was Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. The reception of the visitors was at the banquet hall of the State House.

The President seized the moment to acknowledge efforts by his government during his long absence to keep the country together in spite of vicious hate speeches and agitations from different sections of the country. He thanked the leadership of both parties for attending the meeting. He also thanked those who prayed for his recovery while in the U.K. for medical treatment.

The President said: 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. 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”.

The President who showed vivacity during the meeting exchanged banters with the leaders of both parties. He also briefed them on efforts being made to defend the territorial integrity of the nation.

Others who made the visitation team were Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, Ken Nnamani, etc.