Kaduna, Nigeria – April 12, 2025 – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar dismissed swirling coalition rumors Friday after visiting ex-President Muhammadu Buhari alongside prominent allies. Notable figures, including former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Sokoto’s Aminu Tambuwal, fueled speculation about opposition unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
Atiku clarified the gathering aimed solely at exchanging Sallah greetings with Buhari, delayed by prior commitments in Adamawa. “This visit was purely ceremonial,” he asserted, addressing media inquiries about hidden agendas. His role representing Lamido Fombina during festivities had postponed the courtesy call.
Meanwhile, political analysts interpreted the meeting as strategic positioning amid growing calls for opposition collaboration. Atiku acknowledged broader discussions among parties to challenge the APC’s dominance but stressed these occurred separately. “Coalition talks progress independently,” he noted, distancing them from Friday’s social visit.
The APC, maintaining power since 2015, faces mounting pressure as rival factions explore alliances. Buhari’s presence amplified intrigue, given his enduring influence within the ruling party. Observers speculate whether the encounter signals shifting loyalties or mere tradition.
Critics argue such high-profile meetings inevitably shape public perception, regardless of stated intent. Atiku’s 2023 presidential bid under the PDP banner fuels belief he remains a key opposition figure. His engagement with Buhari, however cordial, sparks debate about potential realignments.
Tambuwal and El-Rufai’s participation further complicated narratives, as both hold significant sway in northern politics. El-Rufai, once a Buhari ally, now critiques APC policies, while Tambuwal’s defection from the PDP in 2022 remains controversial. Their joint appearance with Atiku suggests uneasy alliances forming beneath the surface.
Despite denials, the visit underscores Nigeria’s intensifying political chessboard. Opposition leaders increasingly recognize unity as crucial to countering the APC’s electoral machinery. Yet, ideological differences and personal ambitions threaten fragile negotiations. Atiku’s careful rhetoric reflects this balancing act—honoring tradition while navigating coalition-building.
Public reactions remain divided. Supporters praise his transparency, while skeptics demand concrete plans. “Greetings alone won’t unseat the APC,” argued political analyst Adeola Ogunwale. “Opposition parties must present cohesive policies, not just photo ops.”
As the 2027 elections approach, scrutiny of such interactions will intensify. Buhari’s silence post-meeting leaves room for interpretation, with allies hinting he maintains neutrality. However, his symbolic role as elder statesman grants weight to any association.
Ultimately, Atiku’s visit highlights Nigeria’s complex political culture, where personal relationships and public strategy intertwine. While Sallah courtesies provided cover, the underlying currents reveal a landscape ripe for realignment. Whether these gestures translate into actionable coalitions hinges on overcoming entrenched rivalries.
For now, the PDP stalwart maintains his focus on tradition. “Respecting leaders during festivities is our custom,” he reiterated, deflecting further coalition queries. Yet, as opposition murmurs grow louder, Nigeria’s political future remains delicately poised between unity and fragmentation.
The coming months will test Atiku’s ability to bridge divides while preserving his credibility. With Buhari’s legacy lingering and the APC navigating internal challenges, 2027 promises a fiercely contested battle—one where every handshake and greeting could tip the scales.
