Former presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) have sought to quell speculation regarding their intentions for the 2027 presidential election.
This clarification follows a breakfast meeting between the two in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State, which sparked rumors of political collaboration.
Atiku’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, stated that the meeting was merely a reunion of old friends. He explained that Obi was invited to serve as the keynote speaker for the 20th anniversary of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) and the 16th Founder’s Day celebration, events founded by Atiku Abubakar himself.
Ibe noted, “Let us not jump the gun. Obi accepted the keynote invitation, marking a significant milestone. He is part of that celebration.”
He added, “While Atiku, as the founder, was effectively Obi’s host, many assume this relates to politics. We value our friendships; politics cannot divide true friends.”
After the breakfast, the two attended the university’s celebration together, which Ibe believes explains the meeting.
Obi’s media aide, Ibrahim Umar, echoed Ibe’s sentiments, asserting that the gathering was devoid of political implications. “There was nothing political about it. He was simply invited to deliver a speech, unrelated to politics,” Umar stated.
Despite these assurances, speculation persists about a possible alliance between their parties in anticipation of the 2027 election. Some analysts suggest that a united opposition could significantly challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
It is worth noting that both Atiku and Obi ran jointly in the 2019 election but in 2023, they contested on different platforms for the president of Nigeria.
