Atiku Camp Debunks Fayose’s Political Negotiation Claim

The media team of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Thursday in Abuja denied claims made by former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose about a secret political deal involving Atiku and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

The denial came after Fayose alleged that Makinde had agreed to leave the Peoples Democratic Party for the African Democratic Congress in exchange for becoming Atiku’s running mate in the 2027 presidential election. The claim was said to be linked to a meeting that reportedly took place in Minna, Niger State.

Fayose had shared the allegation on his verified social media page, stating that Makinde met with Atiku in Minna during a carefully arranged gathering attended by selected individuals. He claimed the meeting was part of plans ahead of the next general election.

Reacting to the development, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, dismissed the report as false.

He described the allegation as a made-up story intended to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension. According to him, Atiku did not hold any meeting to discuss a vice-presidential ticket with Makinde or any other political figure as claimed.

Shaibu also denied reports of any financial agreement, zoning arrangement, or promises linked to party delegates. He said there was no secret meeting in Dubai or any other location connected to such discussions. He maintained that Atiku does not engage in hidden political bargaining or backdoor deals.

The statement further accused Fayose of trying to drag other politicians into a narrative that has no basis. It added that Atiku’s political activities are open and focused on national issues rather than personal arrangements.

The camp advised members of the public to ignore the report, describing it as fiction designed to cause confusion. It insisted that there are no negotiations involving Atiku and Makinde about leaving the PDP or forming any joint ticket under another party for the 2027 election.

The response comes amid growing political moves and speculations ahead of the next general polls, as parties and political figures continue to reposition themselves across the country.