Atiku, El-Rufai, Tambuwal Pay Post-Sallah Visit to Buhari Amid 2027 Political Speculations
By Abiola Olawale
High-Profile Delegation Sparks Mega Party Rumors
Former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar led a distinguished delegation to former President Muhammadu Buhari’s residence in Kaduna on Friday for a post-Sallah courtesy visit.
The high-powered group included former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, and other prominent political figures, fueling speculation about potential realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A Warm Exchange Between Political Heavyweights
The visit occurred after Jumaat prayers at Yahaya Road Mosque, with Atiku describing it as a moment filled with warmth and humor. “As the Waziri Adamawa, I was obligated to be in Adamawa during Sallah celebrations,” Atiku shared on social media, “but today I had the opportunity to pay a post-Sallah visit to His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari. It was a wonderful time with him.”
The former Vice President noted that Buhari’s jokes left him in stitches, emphasizing the cordial nature of their meeting.
El-Rufai Downplays Political Motives
El-Rufai, who recently defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), was quick to clarify that the visit was purely a gesture of respect rather than a political strategy session.
“We were in Kaduna for post-Sallah courtesies to former President Muhammadu Buhari,” he posted on X. “It is about unity, not politics,” he added, attempting to quell speculation about 2027 election strategies.
The gathering of these political heavyweights has nevertheless sparked intense speculation among political analysts about potential realignments in Nigeria’s political landscape as the country moves closer to the next election cycle.
Credit: New Diplomat