The All Progressives Congress (APC) has downplayed concerns over a recent high-profile meeting between former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke. The ruling party has dismissed the gathering as inconsequential to its plans for retaining power in the 2027 general elections.
This meeting, held at Obasanjo’s residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, was reportedly part of ongoing discussions about Nigeria’s political future. Although the meeting’s agenda was not disclosed, observers believe it signals preparations by opposition figures to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The talks come amid rising speculation about Tinubu’s bid for re-election. Recently, Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, declared that Tinubu’s leadership would extend until 2031, suggesting no “vacancy” in Aso Rock until then. However, opposition parties have pledged to unseat the APC in the upcoming polls.
In the wake of the weekend meeting, Kwankwaso hinted at plans to reshape the nation’s political direction, describing the deliberations as focused on “significant national issues.” He expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s hospitality, while Donald Duke’s role added a southern perspective to the talks.
Reacting to the developments, APC’s National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed the opposition’s efforts as futile.
He said, “With due respect, I hold Obasanjo in high esteem. As a former President, ex-Head of State, and an elder statesman, I don’t want to take issues with him. But when it comes to the politics of Nigeria, particularly contemporary politics, Tinubu is not their mate.
“Tinubu is head and shoulders above them in modern politics in Nigeria. So the combination of Obasanjo, Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, and Donald Duke, who was my schoolmate, does not present a threat to Tinubu. These are people who were trashed in the last election.
“This is not the first time Obasanjo is going to rally around someone, and that person is defeated. Remember, he supported (ex-President Goodluck) Jonathan, who later lost to Buhari. Obasanjo supported another candidate, Peter Obi, in the last election again and Tinubu trounced them.
“So they can have marathon meetings and meet till the end of time, they will not present any threat to the government of APC. Who among Kwankwaso, Obasanjo, Obi, Duke was not beaten? If they are bringing angels, it’s a different story. But if it is these same spent forces that will combine and meet, their meeting cannot bring any good outcome.”
