On April 11, 2025, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar led a high-profile delegation to the Kaduna residence of former President Muhammadu Buhari, sparking widespread debate about the motives behind the visit.
Accompanying Atiku were former governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), Gabriel Suswam (Benue), Jibrilla Bindow (Adamawa), and Achike Udenwa (Imo), alongside other political figures like former Communications Minister Isa Pantami.
The group, described by Atiku as paying a “post-Sallah courtesy call” after Eid al-Fitr celebrations, attended Jumaat prayers at Yahaya Road Mosque with Buhari before a private lunch at his home. Atiku, posting on X, called the visit a “wonderful time,” noting Buhari’s humor left him “laughing until my ribs hurt.”
Despite Atiku’s framing, the gathering of heavyweights from both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and, in El-Rufai’s case, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), fueled speculation about 2027 election alignments. The visit came days after Buhari reaffirmed his loyalty to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) following a meeting with APC governors, a move analysts saw as a signal to quell rumors of his drifting from the party.
El-Rufai, addressing chatter on X, insisted the visit was “not about politics” but “unity and brotherhood,” emphasizing the group’s shared northern roots and long-standing ties with Buhari. However, political observers note the timing—amid Nigeria’s economic strains and regional tensions—suggests early maneuvering for influence ahead of the next presidential race.
Buhari, who governed from 2015 to 2023, remains a polarizing figure, credited for infrastructure gains but criticized for economic and security challenges during his tenure. Atiku, his 2019 election rival, has maintained cordial relations, and their public warmth contrasted with Nigeria’s polarized climate.