Atiku Abubakar Addresses Media Speculation Over Airport Encounter with APC Senator
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has provided clarification regarding his recent encounter with Senator Abdulaziz Yari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The clarification comes amid swirling media speculation about the nature of their interaction.
Chance Meeting During Pilgrimage Departure
According to official statements from Atiku's camp, the former Vice President traveled privately to Saudi Arabia on Monday, February 2, 2026, to perform the lesser hajj known as Umrah. He was accompanied by family members and close associates for this personal religious journey.
During his time at the airport departure lounge, Atiku had what his team describes as a "chance encounter" with Senator Abdulaziz Yari, who represents Zamfara West and serves as a prominent APC chieftain. The two political figures exchanged greetings and pleasantries in what was characterized as a brief, informal interaction.
Denial of Private Meeting Claims
Media reports had circulated suggesting that Atiku held a private meeting with the former Zamfara State governor at his Abuja residence. These claims have been firmly refuted by Atiku's media adviser, Paul Ibe, who issued a statement on Tuesday, February 3, to set the record straight.
The statement emphasized that no private meeting took place between the two politicians beyond the airport encounter. This clarification aims to dispel speculation about potential political alignments or discussions between the opposition figure and the ruling party senator.
Political Context and 2027 Elections
The encounter occurs against the backdrop of significant political developments as Nigeria looks toward the 2027 general elections. Atiku Abubakar, who was one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's main challengers in the 2023 presidential election, has recently joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after departing from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Political analysts note that Atiku has emerged as a prominent figure within the ADC coalition, which includes other notable political heavyweights such as former Labour Party leader Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, and influential former minister Rotimi Amaechi. Despite the ADC not being traditionally considered one of Nigeria's major political parties, it maintains a national presence that could be strengthened by these new affiliations.
Broader Political Landscape
While official candidates for the 2027 elections have not been announced, political commentators suggest that 79-year-old Atiku Abubakar might consider another presidential bid, which would mark his fifth attempt at Nigeria's highest office. The ADC coalition positions itself as a grassroots alternative to established political structures.
The clarification about the airport encounter comes at a time when political alignments and realignments are being closely watched across Nigeria. Atiku has recently been critical of President Tinubu's administration, expressing concerns about economic challenges facing the country, particularly regarding hunger and poverty affecting vulnerable populations.
This incident highlights how seemingly routine interactions between political figures can generate significant media attention and speculation in Nigeria's dynamic political environment, especially as election cycles approach and political movements evolve.
