Political Heavyweights Consult IBB for 2027 Election Strategy
In a significant political development ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections, two prominent figures have sought the counsel and support of former military president General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd). The separate visits by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to Babangida's Hilltop residence in Minna, Niger State, reveal strategic moves within the opposition political landscape.
Closed-Door Meetings at Hilltop Residence
On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the political atmosphere in Minna intensified as both leaders arrived at different times to meet with the elder statesman. Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), held an extensive closed-door meeting with Babangida that lasted over two hours before departing around 3:20pm.
Governor Seyi Makinde arrived later in the afternoon, accompanied by former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola. The Oyo State governor spent considerable time with the former military leader, departing around 4:00pm after what sources described as substantive consultations about future political alignments.
ADC Party Building and Membership Mobilization
According to reliable sources who spoke with Daily Trust, Atiku's primary objective was to seek Babangida's support for the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The former vice president confirmed this during his interaction with journalists after the meeting, emphasizing his focus on strengthening the party's structures nationwide.
"We are mobilizing Nigerians to register with ADC and building strong party structures from ward to national level," Atiku stated. He further clarified that "the ADC constitution does not recognize zoning, unlike the PDP which has it clearly stated in their constitution."
When questioned about his 2027 presidential ambitions, Atiku maintained that "the issue of contesting in 2027 has not even arisen," while noting his regular visits to Minna to pay respects to the former leader.
Makinde's Potential Party Switch
Governor Makinde's consultation with Babangida centered on his reported plans to potentially join the African Democratic Congress. The meeting suggests the governor is exploring political alternatives beyond his current PDP affiliation as the 2027 elections approach.
Political analysts view these consultations as significant indicators of shifting alliances within Nigeria's opposition politics. The involvement of Babangida, who remains influential in northern politics despite his retirement from active politics, adds weight to these strategic moves.
Broader Political Context
These meetings occur against the backdrop of several recent political developments:
- Atiku's recent pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia where he received a visit from former First Lady Aisha Buhari and family members
- The clarification of his airport encounter with APC Senator Abdulaziz Yari
- Growing political consultations across party lines ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle
The convergence of these political heavyweights in Minna demonstrates the ongoing realignment within Nigeria's political landscape as various actors position themselves for the next general elections. The emphasis on party structure building and membership mobilization suggests a strategic approach to challenging the ruling party's dominance in future elections.
