Atiku eyes Makinde as running mate in ADC 2027 bid, Fayose alleges

Reports emerged Wednesday that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is poised to join the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) and become the running mate of former Vice President Abubakar Atiku in his bid for the party’s presidential ticket in 2027.

The revelation came from former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, who claimed to have information from a closed-door meeting between Makinde and Atiku in Minna, Niger State on Tuesday.

According to Fayose, Makinde agreed to switch allegiance to ADC on the condition that he receives the vice-presidential ticket.

He reportedly offered N10 billion in two tranches to support what he described as a “proper take-off” for the party and pledged additional funding once the campaign begins.

Fayose also claimed that Makinde promised to deliver Southwest delegates during the ADC primary and use the influence of his wife, from Rivers State, to mobilize votes in the South-South.

The meeting in Minna, described as carefully orchestrated to ensure confidentiality and acceptability, reportedly took into account Peter Obi’s unwillingness to be Atiku’s running mate and the need for a candidate acceptable to northern stakeholders.

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A follow-up meeting has reportedly been scheduled in Dubai, UAE, within the next two weeks for further discussions and ratification by Atiku’s inner caucus.

Political analysts say that if these reports prove accurate, the move could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.

Dr. Tunde Ajayi, political analyst, noted: “Makinde brings strong influence in the Southwest, a region often decisive in general elections. His potential defection to ADC and alignment with Atiku could fracture opposition coalitions, particularly if the Southwest vote is split.”

Prof. Aisha Bello, governance expert, added: “The N10 billion offer, if true, reflects the increasing role of personal financing in party politics. While controversial, it highlights how strategic alliances are being formed ahead of party primaries and the general election.”

However, some political observers caution that such reports remain unverified, noting that both Atiku and Makinde have not publicly confirmed the arrangement.

Analysts also point out that ADC’s non-zoning of its presidential ticket may provide flexibility but could trigger intra-party tensions if other aspirants contest the ticket.

As the 2027 electoral cycle approaches, Makinde’s possible defection to ADC could signal the start of high-stakes negotiations and alliances aimed at consolidating votes across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.