Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar hosted an exclusive Iftar dinner, bringing together prominent northern leaders for what he described as an evening of "robust discussions." Among those in attendance were former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Adamawa State Governor Jibrilla Bindow, and Musa Halilu, the Dujima of Adamawa.
While details of their discussions remain undisclosed, the gathering has sparked speculation about its political and strategic significance, especially given the diverse backgrounds of the attendees.
Atiku Abubakar: A Political Powerhouse
Atiku Abubakar, a seasoned politician and businessman, served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 1999 to 2007. A key figure in national politics, he has remained influential in shaping governance and policy discussions, particularly within the opposition.
Nasir El-Rufai: The Kaduna Reformer
Nasir El-Rufai, known for his controversial yet transformative policies, governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023. Before then, he was the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where he gained national prominence for his urban reforms in Abuja.
Jibrilla Bindow: Former Governor With Business Acumen
Jibrilla Bindow, who served as Adamawa State Governor from 2015 to 2019, transitioned from a successful business career into politics. His administration focused on infrastructure and education, aiming to position Adamawa as a key player in the North-East.
Musa Halilu: Traditional Leadership and Influence
Musa Halilu, the Dujima of Adamawa, is a respected traditional leader and entrepreneur known for his involvement in community development and youth empowerment.
A Meeting of Political Minds
Given Atiku's history of coalition-building and political maneuvering, the presence of El-Rufai, Bindow, and Halilu at the Iftar dinner has fueled speculation about possible realignments ahead of Nigeria’s political future. Whether this meeting signals a new alliance, a reconciliation of political differences, or merely a moment of shared reflection during Ramadan, remains to be seen.
One thing is certain—Atiku continues to position himself at the center of key political conversations, and this gathering will undoubtedly have ripple effects in the coming months.