Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed speculations linking his recent visit to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo to political maneuvering, insisting it was nothing more than a courtesy call on his former boss.
Atiku, who arrived at Obasanjo’s Abeokuta residence within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library premises at exactly 12:37 p.m., was accompanied by an influential entourage, including former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, and Senator Abdul Ningi, among others.
The high-profile delegation was warmly received by elder statesman Otunba Oyewole Fasawe before proceeding to a closed-door meeting with Obasanjo. The discussion, which lasted for about one and a half hours, fueled speculations about its political undertones, especially as Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race gradually begins to take shape.
Emerging from the meeting at 2:17 p.m., Atiku addressed the waiting journalists but remained firm in dismissing any political interpretations of his visit.
“I am here on a courtesy visit. I am not here to talk politics,” he stated emphatically when asked whether the meeting was connected to his 2027 presidential ambition.
Atiku further reiterated his position, saying, “I was not in Abeokuta to see Obasanjo because of 2027. It is purely a courtesy visit. I’m not going to talk about 2027 or politics. I’m not here because of 2027.”
However, his consistent denials have done little to quell speculations, as political observers question the presence of heavyweights like Tambuwal and Imoke, both of whom have played key roles in past PDP political strategies. Notably, Tambuwal, when approached for comments, also refused to disclose the essence of the visit, further deepening curiosity over what truly transpired behind closed doors.
Given Nigeria’s political landscape, where alliances and backroom deals are often forged long before elections, Atiku’s visit—despite his insistence—has inevitably stirred political discourse. With Obasanjo’s influence in national politics, many believe that such a meeting cannot be dismissed as merely a social call.
Whether Atiku was indeed there to seek counsel, rekindle old ties, or subtly lay the groundwork for another shot at the presidency, only time will tell. However, one thing is certain—in Nigerian politics, every move has significance, even when shrouded in denial.
PIONEER NEWS 