In a move that may be widely interpreted as part of ongoing efforts to build a formidable political coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential elections, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Friday led a high-profile delegation on a post-Sallah visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari at his Kaduna residence.

The delegation, which included former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has stirred political speculation in some quarters, especially as Atiku intensifies consultations to forge a united opposition front capable of unseating President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.

According to a statement signed by Paul Ibe of the Atiku Media Office, the visit was originally framed as a post-Sallah courtesy call.

The statement noted that Atiku, as the Waziri of Adamawa, had been unable to travel during the Sallah celebrations due to traditional obligations in Adamawa State. However, political observers see the visit as more than ceremonial.

“This is not just about Sallah greetings. These are key political figures with national reach and recent history of influence in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP),” said a political analyst in Abuja who asked not to be named. “Atiku is clearly laying the groundwork for a broader alliance, and the inclusion of el-Rufai adds an intriguing dimension, given his fallout with the Tinubu presidency.”

The visit comes amid growing signs of discontent within the political elite over Tinubu’s economic reforms and perceived centralization of power within his administration.

Atiku, who lost to Tinubu in the 2023 polls, has remained vocal in his criticism of the government and has been quietly reaching out to former allies and even estranged rivals to build momentum for a third presidential run.

Tambuwal, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and seasoned political bridge-builder, and el-Rufai, who has retained significant grassroots influence in the North-West, are both seen as crucial players in any potential power realignment.

While Buhari’s personal political preferences for 2027 remain unknown, his reception of the delegation, particularly one involving figures who have been critical of the Tinubu government, has fueled further intrigue about the former president’s quiet influence on the evolving political chessboard.

As the 2027 race begins to take shape, Friday’s visit marks one of the clearest indications yet that behind-the-scenes maneuvering is well underway. (Text: Nigerian Tribune, but headline rejigged)