former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde held high-profile meetings with former Military President Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB) at his Uphill Residence in Minna, Niger State.

While the visits are being framed as “private” or “consultative,” they have sparked significant speculation regarding political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

​The Schedule: Atiku arrived at the residence around 1:00 p.m., followed by Governor Makinde approximately an hour later. They held both separate and joint closed-door discussions with the elder statesman

Atiku’s New Party: Notably, Atiku confirmed during the visit that he is now a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He stated his focus is currently on building party structures at the grassroots level rather than discussing a 2027 presidential bid.

The “G-5” Context: The meeting between Atiku and Makinde is particularly significant because they fell out during the 2023 elections. Makinde was a key member of the “G-5” governors who opposed Atiku’s candidacy. Their joint appearance suggests a potential reconciliation or the formation of a new opposition coalition.

Economic Policy: He reiterated his call for the privatization of the NNPC, citing recent government spending on refineries as a validation of his long-held position.

Governor Makinde remained more reserved, declining to speak extensively with journalists. He described his visit as a “private” one to pay respects to the former president. However, his presence alongside Atiku fuels rumors that he may be considering a move to the ADC or a new alliance, despite his previous claims of being “comfortable” in the PDP.