Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has refuted claims that he held a private meeting with ex-Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, at his Abuja residence.
The clarification comes after reports suggested that Atiku, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), hosted Yari, an All Progressives Congress (APC) member, at his home prior to a trip abroad. Some media outlets described the interaction as a “closed-door” session, fueling speculation about potential cross-party discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement on Tuesday via X, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, explained that the two politicians only crossed paths briefly at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Ibe stated, “On Monday, 2nd February, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar departed for the lesser hajj in Saudi Arabia, accompanied by family and associates. While at the airport departure lounge, he had a brief, chance encounter with Senator Abdulaziz Yari, during which they exchanged greetings and pleasantries.”
The aide emphasized that the circulating reports of a private meeting at Atiku’s residence are false and should be disregarded.
