Atiku, Peter Obi deny plotting joint ticket for 2027 presidential election

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have refuted claims that they are considering a joint ticket for the 2027 elections.

Speculations emerged after photos and videos of Atiku hosting Obi for breakfast at his residence in Adamawa State went viral. In a caption accompanying the images, Atiku wrote: “It is breakfast time with my friend, #PeterObi, in the ‘land of beauty.’”

The footage showed the two leaders sharing a meal alongside other guests, sparking political rumours.

These speculations follow remarks by PDP Deputy National Spokesman Ibrahim Abdullahi on a live TV program, suggesting that opposition leaders, including Atiku, Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP, were exploring a potential alliance to challenge the ruling APC.

Responding to the reports, Atiku’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, clarified that the meeting was a social reunion rather than a political strategy.

He stated, “Let us not jump the gun. The fact is that Obi accepted to be the keynote speaker at the 20th anniversary of AUN and the 16th Founder’s Day, which was a milestone. Obi is part of that celebration.

“The university was founded by Atiku Abubakar, who was more like his host. But people think it is because of politics. We all know our friends. The truth is that politics cannot separate friends.

“So Atiku invited him to breakfast and from there, they went for the programme. I think that is what happened.”

Similarly, Obi’s aide, Ibrahim Umar, dismissed the rumors, calling them unfounded.

He clarified, “No, there was nothing like that. They just invited him (Obi) to deliver a speech there. It has nothing to do with politics. Of course, you know people will always assume things.”

While the breakfast meeting may have reignited discussions about opposition unity, both leaders maintain it was merely a cordial gathering unrelated to 2027 political aspirations.