The presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, made headlines on Saturday with a visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari at his residence in Daura, Katsina State. Accompanied by Senator Aminu Tambuwal and other prominent PDP stakeholders, the visit has sparked considerable political speculation.
In a social media post, Atiku clarified the purpose of his visit, stating, “Accompanied by some stakeholders of our great party, the @OfficialPDPNig, we visited the Daura residence of former President Muhammadu Buhari to pay a courtesy call and offer Sallah homage.”
This explanation comes amid growing curiosity about his motivations, with many viewing it as a strategic move potentially aimed at garnering support for the 2027 presidential election.
This visit is particularly noteworthy in light of Senator Aminu Tambuwal’s political history with Atiku. Tambuwal, the former Governor of Sokoto State, had withdrawn from the PDP presidential primary election in 2022, just before voting commenced, thereby facilitating Atiku Abubakar’s emergence as the party’s presidential candidate.
At the time, Tambuwal stated, “I have come to the conclusion – to the glory of God Almighty, seeing millions of Nigerians suffering and the need for us to close ranks in the party and as one of the leaders in this party – I have come to a patriotic conclusion to step down my aspiration.” He further urged his supporters to back Atiku, emphasizing national unity and patriotism.
Atiku’s visit to Buhari, a key figure from the opposing All Progressives Congress (APC), has been interpreted by some as an attempt to build bridges across political divides. As Nigeria prepares for the next election cycle, such gestures of reconciliation and unity may play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape.