President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday held a closed-door meeting with Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, a close ally of New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, at the State House, Abuja.

The meeting comes against the backdrop of mounting speculation about a possible defection of Kwankwaso and his supporters to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as well as a wave of recent criticisms of the Tinubu administration by the NNPP presidential candidate in the 2023 general election.

Jibrin, a member of the House of Representatives representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency and a long-time associate of Tinubu and Kwankwaso, told journalists after the meeting that discussions focused on national issues of public interest.

While refusing to confirm whether a formal defection to the APC was imminent, Jibrin suggested the possibility could not be ruled out.

“I do not think it is time for that conversation. But everything is open, and everything is a possibility. The most important thing is stability of the country, is unity of the country, and I believe that when we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it,” Jibrin said when asked directly if he was returning to the APC.

The meeting has further fuelled speculation of a realignment within Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as Kwankwaso, in recent weeks, has openly criticised the Tinubu administration’s performance, particularly regarding northern development and inclusion.

Asked whether his presence at the Villa was connected to efforts to douse political tensions between Tinubu and Kwankwaso, Jibrin downplayed the notion, describing the two politicians as seasoned leaders who share a commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

“The President is a first-class politician. Of course, the national leader of the NNPP is also a thoroughbred politician, and I believe that both of them are committed to the peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria. So irrespective of the comments that were made, I do not think that it should be a source of concern that I’m seen in the Villa during this period,” he said.

On whether President Tinubu has delivered for the North, in contrast to Kwankwaso’s recent remarks, Jibrin offered a balanced response.

“Well, every leader does his best, and it depends on how you want to rate him. You can decide to see the cup half full, or you look at the cup half empty. But I also believe that everyone is entitled to his opinion, and it can always just contribute to deepening the discourse—sometimes it might turn out to be a blessing in disguise,” he noted.

While political observers continue to monitor movements between the NNPP and APC, Jibrin’s visit and his cryptic remarks have added new momentum to ongoing speculations about a broader reconciliation or possible merger talks involving key northern political figures and the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections. (The Nation)