Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party leader Peter Obi have dismissed speculations about plotting their 2027 presidential ambitions after a surprise breakfast meeting in Yola.
The two political heavyweights, who contested the 2023 presidential election, were seen dining together ahead of a public event, stirring political chatter across the nation.
Breakfast Sparks Rumors
A video of Atiku and Obi seated at a dining table quickly went viral, fueling speculation about a potential political alliance or plans for 2027.
However, Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, was quick to clarify the nature of the meeting.
“Let us not jump the gun,” Ibe told reporters.
According to him, the gathering was simply a reunion of old friends.
“The fact is that Obi accepted to be the keynote speaker at the 20th anniversary of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) and the 16th Founder’s Day. Obi is part of that celebration,” Ibe explained.
“Politics Cannot Separate Friends”
Ibe emphasized that politics was not the driving force behind the breakfast meeting.
“The university was founded by Atiku Abubakar, who was more like his host,” Ibe noted.
He added that Atiku extended a breakfast invitation to Obi, which the Labour Party leader accepted before attending the event.
“People think it is because of politics. We all know our friends. The truth is that politics cannot separate friends,” Ibe declared.
Obi’s Camp Speaks Out
Peter Obi’s media aide, Ibrahim Umar, also downplayed the political angle, urging Nigerians not to read too much into the meeting.
“There was nothing like that,” Umar said in response to the rumors.
He reiterated that Obi was merely invited to deliver a speech and that the gathering had no hidden agenda.
“They just invited him to deliver a speech there. It has nothing to do with politics. Of course, you know people will always assume things,” Umar added.
Reunion of Political Titans
Both Atiku and Obi were key players in Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election.
Atiku contested under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), while Obi ran as the Labour Party’s flagbearer.
The election saw fierce competition between the two leaders and other candidates, with Bola Ahmed Tinubu eventually emerging as Nigeria’s president.
Despite their rivalry on the campaign trail, Saturday’s reunion highlighted a different side of their relationship.
Public Reactions and Speculations
The sight of Atiku and Obi together reignited conversations about Nigeria’s political future.
Many observers speculated that the meeting could signal a potential alliance or strategic planning for 2027.
However, political analysts have urged caution, noting that friendships in politics do not always translate into alliances.
“While it’s interesting to see Atiku and Obi together, we must remember that politics is dynamic. This could simply be a friendly gesture,” one analyst noted.
A Celebration of Milestones
The American University of Nigeria (AUN) event was the primary reason for Obi’s visit to Yola.
Founded by Atiku Abubakar, AUN has become a symbol of educational excellence in Nigeria.
The 20th-anniversary celebration and 16th Founder’s Day were significant milestones for the institution.
Obi, known for his emphasis on education and youth development, delivered a keynote address that resonated with the audience.
“No Plans for 2027”
Despite the buzz, both camps maintain that there are no immediate plans for the 2027 presidential election.
Political commentators believe the friendship between Atiku and Obi could influence future collaborations but caution against premature conclusions.
For now, the focus remains on governance and addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
A Lesson in Unity
The breakfast meeting served as a reminder that political differences need not erode personal relationships.
As Paul Ibe aptly put it, “Politics cannot separate friends.”
