Kehinde Fajobi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday dismissed concerns over a possible alliance between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, insisting that their meeting posed no threat to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, downplayed the significance of the gathering, describing it as the actions of “indolent and lazy” politicians.
“We don’t react to other people’s acts as a political party. We only do our own things,” Basiru told The PUNCH.
“Presently, our plate is full. We are concentrating on how to win the Anambra governorship election on November 8 and running the government.
“They (Atiku and Obasanjo) are indolent; they don’t have anything to do. So, they can meet any day, any time.”
Atiku, the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, led a delegation—including former Sokoto governor Aminu Tambuwal and ex-Cross River governor Liyel Imoke—to Obasanjo’s Abeokuta residence on Monday. The visit sparked speculation about a coalition ahead of 2027.
A source privy to the discussions said, “Yes, we are trying to see how we can collectively work together to salvage this country ahead of 2027.”
However, Atiku, when asked if the visit was tied to his presidential ambition, downplayed the speculation. “I am here on a courtesy call. I am not here to talk politics,” he said.
Basiru dismissed the possibility of an alliance posing any challenge to the APC.
“How can people who are in disarray be a threat to a solid political party like the APC? We are talking about a party that is not embedded in any crisis and has high-calibre people who can win elections. So, we are not worried,” he said.
This is not the first time Atiku has sought opposition alliances. In November 2024, he called on opposition parties to unite against the APC, warning against a one-party state.
Obasanjo, who endorsed Atiku in the 2019 elections, had previously expressed confidence in his ability to lead Nigeria.
However, despite the endorsement, Atiku lost to then-incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari.
Meanwhile, reactions from other opposition parties remain mixed. Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, welcomed the idea of a coalition but warned against alliances focused solely on power.
His media aide, Ibrahim Umar, said Obi’s participation would depend on alignment with principles of transparency and good governance.
READ ALSO: Atiku Denies Political Intent Behind Meeting with Obasanjo
Labour Party, however, distanced itself from coalition talks. Its National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said, “Labour Party has no agenda for a coalition.
“Even if we are going to do it, all stakeholders will have to agree through NEC. That discussion is not on our table for now.”
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), however, expressed openness to an alliance.
NNPP spokesman Ladipo Johnson said, “We are open to any meaningful coalition that would bring hope to Nigerians… Obasanjo is a patriot and revered elder statesman.”