The National Vice Chairman (South-East) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ijeoma Arodiogbu, has dismissed recent political alliance speculations. These talks linked former Vice President Atiku Abubakar with Rabiu Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
Speaking to Punch, Mr. Arodiogbu voiced strong confidence. He believes Kwankwaso will join the ruling APC. This move would be instead of aligning with Atiku Abubakar.
Renewed speculation began two weeks ago. It followed Atiku’s public display of camaraderie. This occurred during Kwankwaso’s 69th birthday celebrations.
“Kwankwaso is an experienced politician,” the APC chieftain stated. “We believe he will bring that experience to bear. This will happen if he makes the right decision.”
He continued, “We believe joining the APC would be to his best advantage. If he rejoins the APC, it will happen soon. Many such defections are expected before this year ends.”
“There is no way Kwankwaso will leave his party. He will not form an alliance with Atiku. I simply do not see that happening,” Mr. Arodiogbu affirmed.
Atiku’s Political End?
Reporters questioned if Atiku might offer Kwankwaso a better deal. This was compared to President Bola Tinubu’s potential offers. Mr. Arodiogbu reacted sharply to the hypothetical scenario.
“Will he decamp to join Atiku in whatever party he is?” Arodiogbu asked. “There is no way Atiku can offer him anything meaningful. Even Kwankwaso understands this.”
He added, “As an experienced politician, he knows Atiku has reached his political end. Many people, not just politicians, struggle to know when to stop. Every race has a stopping point.”
“Anything beyond that point is a waste of energy. Some politicians have crossed their peak. The best thing for them is to stop. This is especially true for individuals like Atiku.”
Arodiogbu used a vivid analogy. “I see Atiku as a man galloping on a two-legged horse. He is like a boy drawing a car in the sand and trying to drive it. Is he going anywhere? That is how I view Atiku.”
He concluded, “Kwankwaso is wiser than that. He would not take such a misguided step.”
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