The Digest:
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed as "beer-parlour tales" allegations by ex-Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose that he negotiated the ADC vice-presidential ticket with Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde during their separate visits to former military president Ibrahim Babangida in Minna. In a statement by aide Phrank Shaibu, Atiku insisted there were no discussions on zoning, VP slot, or an alleged N10 billion contribution from Makinde. Fayose had claimed Makinde demanded the VP ticket and promised to deliver south-west delegates and release funds in two tranches. Atiku described the allegations as "cheap propaganda" and "transactional theatrics," urging the public to disregard them entirely.
Key Points:
- The exchange exposes internal tensions within the opposition ADC as parties position for 2027.
- It fuels public perception of discord and transactional horse-trading among opposition figures.
- Atiku defends his political integrity, while Fayose's credibility faces renewed scrutiny.
- This signals the high stakes and early jostling for position within Nigeria's opposition coalition.
- The timing, two years before elections, reflects intensifying competition for influence and ticket allocations.
Sources: The Cable, Channel TV
