Atiku, Obi speak on 2027 Presidential election plans

The 2023 presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, have dismissed rumors about planning for the 2027 presidential election.

The clarification follows a breakfast meeting between the two in Yola, Adamawa State, which sparked widespread speculation.

Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, described the gathering as a casual reunion between longtime friends.

He explained that Obi had been invited as the keynote speaker at the 20th anniversary of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) and the 16th Founder’s Day. The institution was founded by Atiku.

“Let’s not jump to conclusions,” Ibe said. “Obi accepted the invitation to deliver the keynote address at a significant milestone for AUN. As the university’s founder, Atiku was his host, and their interaction was purely social. Politics cannot separate true friends.”

He added, “After breakfast, they proceeded to the event. That’s all there is to it.”

Similarly, Obi’s media aide, Ibrahim Umar, affirmed that the meeting had no political motives.

“The invitation was solely to deliver a speech at the event. There is no political agenda here,” Umar stated.

Despite the clarifications, speculation persists about a potential alliance between the PDP and LP ahead of the 2027 elections. Political analysts suggest that a coalition between the two parties could present a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

It’s worth noting that Atiku and Obi previously ran as running mates on the PDP ticket in the 2019 presidential election.