A high-profile meeting took place at the Hilltop residence of former Military President Ibrahim Babangida in Minna, Niger State, as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde held talks with the elder statesman. The closed-door gathering, which also drew ADC chieftains including Assistant National Youth Leader, North Central, Hassana Shuibu Dada, is being seen as a significant development amid growing speculation about the 2027 general election.

Atiku, who arrived at Babangida’s residence via Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, emphasized the need for opposition parties to unite on electoral reform, criticizing the recent passage of the electoral law as inadequate. He expressed disappointment with the Senate’s decision, stressing the importance of real-time electronic transfer of election results.

The meeting comes as politicians sharpen their pencils ahead of the 2027 polls, with Atiku reiterating that his priority is strengthening the African Democratic Congress (ADC) party structures, rather than contesting the elections. Makinde, who refused to speak to the press, is believed to be exploring alliances and strategies for the upcoming electoral cycle.