The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed concerns that a potential alliance between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, poses any threat to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

Speaking with journalists on Monday, APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, downplayed the significance of the meeting held in Abeokuta between Obasanjo and his former vice president, Atiku.

Atiku was accompanied by a high-profile delegation, including former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, former Cross River State Governor Senator Liyel Imoke, and other political figures. The delegation arrived at Obasanjo’s residence within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library at 12:37 p.m., where they were received by elder statesman Otunba Oyewole Fasawe.

While details of their discussion remain unclear, speculation suggests the meeting was linked to Atiku’s possible 2027 presidential ambition. However, Atiku, when asked, denied any political agenda, stating, “I am here on a courtesy call. I am not here to talk politics.”

Despite his remarks, rumors of a coalition with Obasanjo as the central figure gained traction. A source privy to the meeting confirmed, “Yes, we are exploring ways to collaborate in salvaging the country ahead of 2027.”

Reacting to the development, Senator Basiru described the meeting as a gathering of “indolent and lazy” politicians, emphasizing that the ruling party was focused on governance and electoral strategy.

“As a party, we don’t react to other people’s activities. Our priority right now is winning the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State and running the government efficiently. We have no time for political meetings or distractions,” Basiru said.

He further stated that the APC remains unshaken by any opposition moves, adding, “How can a fragmented opposition be a threat to a solid political party like the APC? We have a strong and crisis-free structure with credible leaders who can win elections. Our focus remains on governance and the upcoming Anambra election.”

This is not the first time Atiku has sought alliances. In November 2024, he called on opposition parties to unite, warning against Nigeria becoming a one-party state under the APC.

Similarly, Obasanjo endorsed Atiku in the 2019 general elections, expressing confidence in his leadership over then-incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari. Despite this endorsement, Atiku lost, with Buhari securing a second term.

Meanwhile, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed openness to a coalition but insisted it must not be solely for “power-grabbing.”

Speaking at a recent national conference on democracy and governance in Abuja, Obi’s media aide, Ibrahim Umar, stated, “Any collaboration must align with principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance.”

However, the Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, countered Obi’s stance, clarifying that the party has no immediate plans for a coalition.

“Nobody has approached us. If such discussions ever arise, it would require approval from our National Executive Council (NEC). Right now, coalition talks are not on our agenda,” Ifoh said.

On the other hand, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) signaled openness to a coalition, particularly if led by a respected statesman like Obasanjo.

NNPP spokesman, Ladipo Johnson, stated, “We welcome any meaningful coalition that brings hope to Nigerians. A partnership with like-minded individuals is essential, and Obasanjo is a revered elder statesman.”

With 2027 approaching, the political landscape continues to shift, leaving room for further realignments and strategic moves.