Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Thursday paid a visit to former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, at his Abuja residence, as tensions continue to rise over the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The visit, which Atiku later shared on Facebook, was described as a friendly engagement where both politicians discussed Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, insecurity challenges, and the need for patriotic leaders to work towards national solutions.

Atiku referred to Amaechi as his “brother and compatriot,” noting that their conversation also included light-hearted moments, such as birthday greetings and jokes about Arsenal Football Club.He further mentioned that Amaechi apologised for not preparing Fisherman Soup, a delicacy promised for a future visit.However, despite the cordial tone, Amaechi did not publicly comment on the political implications of the meeting.

A source close to Atiku claimed that Amaechi remained noncommittal during discussions, stating that he would consult his supporters and associates before taking a position on the ADC presidential ticket issue.

The meeting comes in the wake of a heated contest within the ADC involving Atiku, Amaechi, and Mohammed Hayatu-deen, all of whom previously contested the party’s presidential ticket.Although Atiku was declared winner of the primary, both Amaechi and Hayatu-deen rejected the outcome, alleging irregularities and manipulation.

The dispute has further deepened divisions within Nigeria’s opposition coalition, which sees the ADC as a possible platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC in 2027.

Political observers believe such high-level engagements may be part of ongoing efforts to stabilise internal rifts and consolidate support within the opposition ahead of the next general elections.