Tinubu Not Threatened by Obasanjo, Kwankwaso, Obi’s Talks – APC
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has downplayed the significance of a recent meeting between former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Cross River State governor, Donald Duke, describing it as no threat to the ruling party or President Bola Tinubu’s chances in the 2027 general elections.
Over the weekend, Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), and Duke, a 2007 presidential aspirant, visited Obasanjo at his residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to deliberate on Nigeria’s political future. Although the specifics of their closed-door meeting remain undisclosed, sources familiar with the discussions suggested that the talks were part of efforts to strategise ahead of the 2027 elections.
The meeting occurred amidst rising debates about the next presidential elections, particularly after the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, declared that there would be “no vacancy in Aso Rock” until 2031, implying a second-term bid for Tinubu. This assertion has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who have vowed to unseat the APC in 2027.
Obasanjo, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, has been openly critical of Tinubu’s administration, particularly over allegations of corruption and the country’s growing debt burden. Meanwhile, Kwankwaso commands significant influence in Kano State and northern Nigeria, while Duke, known for his governance and vision, brings a southern perspective to discussions on national unity. Their meeting with Obasanjo has fueled speculation about the potential formation of a coalition to challenge the APC in the next election cycle.
Kwankwaso confirmed the meeting on his Facebook page, describing it as a meaningful engagement on critical national issues. He noted that he was accompanied by Duke and other associates and expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s “warm reception, support, and hospitality.” He added that the deliberations focused on Nigeria’s future politics and governance.
However, the APC dismissed the meeting as irrelevant to the party’s dominance. Speaking to The PUNCH on Sunday, APC National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, confidently stated that Tinubu’s political influence remains unmatched by the opposition.
“With due respect, Obasanjo is a respected elder statesman. But in contemporary Nigerian politics, Tinubu is not their mate. He is head and shoulders above them. Obasanjo, Kwankwaso, Obi, and Duke were all beaten in the last election. This is not the first time Obasanjo has supported candidates who lost,” Ibrahim said.
Ibrahim further argued that no coalition formed by these leaders could threaten Tinubu or the APC. “They can hold marathon meetings for as long as they like, but it won’t change anything. These are spent forces. If they were bringing angels, that would be different. But with this same group, no outcome will pose any challenge to the APC,” he added.
The APC remains steadfast in its belief that Tinubu’s leadership and relevance in modern Nigerian politics will secure the party’s continuity beyond 2027, despite efforts by opposition figures to forge alliances.