Atiku and Makinde Meet IBB, Former VP Pursues ADC Support

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde made independent visits to General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd) at his Hilltop residence in Minna, Niger State, on Tuesday, in light of increasing political activity as the 2027 general elections approach.

Atiku arrived at Babangida’s residence at about 12:46 PM, having flown into the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna on a private jet with the registration number 5N-KAS.

He was accompanied by notable figures, including Kashim Imam and Senator Ben Obi.

Governor Makinde followed suit, arriving at Babangida’s home around 2:00 PM, with the former governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, by his side.

Atiku engaged Babangida in a closed-door discussion that lasted over two hours before departing Minna around 3:20 PM. In contrast, Makinde stayed longer and left the residence at approximately 4:00 PM after further discussions with the former military leader.

Sources indicate that Atiku's visit was primarily aimed at soliciting Babangida's backing for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while Makinde sought counsel regarding his anticipated affiliation with the party.

Following the meeting, Atiku addressed journalists, stating that the visit was part of broader initiatives to rally Nigerians in support of and increase membership in the ADC, while also fortifying the party's organizational framework across the country.

He confirmed his membership in the ADC and explained that the party's constitution does not incorporate any provisions for zoning.

"There is no zoning stipulated in the ADC's constitution. In fact, the only political party that has clearly defined zoning in its constitution is the PDP," he remarked.

Atiku added, "This isn’t my first visit to Minna. I have consistently come here to pay my respects. The matter of contesting in the 2027 elections has not been discussed yet."

He emphasized that the ADC is dedicated to establishing strong organizational bases from the grassroots to the national level while focusing on mobilizing and recruiting new members.