The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed concerns that a possible alliance between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar could pose a threat to President Bola Tinubu’s chances of re-election in 2027.
Speaking in an interview, APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, stated that the party is not concerned about the meeting between Obasanjo and Atiku, which took place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Monday.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, led a delegation that included former Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, and former Governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke. The delegation was received at Obasanjo’s residence by elder statesman Otunba Oyewole Fasawe.
Though details of their discussions were not made public, reports suggest that the meeting might be connected to Atiku’s plans for the 2027 presidential election. However, when asked if his visit had any political motive, Atiku responded, “I am here on a courtesy call. I am not here to talk politics.”
Despite Atiku’s statement, speculation has grown that the meeting was part of efforts to form a coalition ahead of the next election. A source familiar with the discussions reportedly said, “Yes, we are trying to see how we can collectively work together to salvage this country ahead of 2027.”
Reacting to the meeting, Senator Basiru dismissed it as insignificant, describing those involved as “indolent and lazy” politicians. He added that APC is focused on running the government and winning the upcoming Anambra governorship election in November.
He said, “We don’t react to other people’s acts as a political party. We only do our own things. Presently, our plate is full. We are personally concentrating on how to win and bring Anambra on board for the APC. So, we don’t have time for talks on any political meetings. We also have a responsibility to run the government.
“They (Atiku and Obasanjo) are indolent; they don’t have anything to do. So, they can meet any day, any time. Our government is concentrating on delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. We don’t have an issue with some indolent people meeting anybody they want to meet.”
On whether they don’t see the gathering of political bigwigs as a threat, Basiru dismissed it as non-issue.
“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. We are concentrating on winning the Anambra governorship election on November 8. That’s where our concentration lies for now.”
