Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has begun strategic engagements ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
He met privately with leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from the South-East and key Igbo political figures in Abuja.
The meeting was held at the residence of Chikwe Udensi, a prominent ADC chieftain.
Read also: ADC accuses Tinubu government of selective justice in El-Rufai and Malami cases
The discussion centred on possible political collaboration ahead of the ADC presidential primary.
Sources familiar with the meeting said talks focused on unity, alliance-building, and how the South-East can play a stronger role in national politics through the party.
Several notable personalities were present.
They included Senator Augustine Akobundu, Chief Chekwas Okorie, and former Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba.
Others in attendance were Osita Oruche, Onyi Nwagbara, a professor, Uchenna Okogbuo, and former ADC National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu.
Lawmakers such as Uzoma Abonta and Uko Nkole also joined the session.
Senior lawyers and technocrats, including Etigwe Uwah (SAN) and Steve Nwadiuko, were part of the meeting.
Political stakeholders like Senator Frank Ibezim and Dave Eboh were equally present.
The gathering was described as consultative rather than ceremonial.
Participants reportedly reviewed the political climate in the South-East and assessed pathways for consensus within the ADC.
Attention was also given to how the region can influence the outcome of the party’s primary election.
Read also: ADC’s West Africa growth driver departs after cementing market foothold
Although no official statement was issued after the meeting, insiders said the talks reflected Atiku’s intention to deepen engagement with regional blocs ahead of 2027.
They added that further consultations with other geopolitical zones are expected in the coming weeks.
