Atiku speaks on encounter with APC chieftain Abdulaziz Yari

Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

Former Vice Atiku Abubakar has revealed circumstances of his meeting with former governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdulaziz Yari.

Atiku made the explanation in a statement issued by Paul Ibe, his spokesperson in reaction to controversies being generated over the meeting between former Vice President who is a chieftain of opposition African Democratic Congress, ADC and Yari, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

There have been speculations that the meeting between Atiku and Yari took place at the Vice President’s residence in Abuja

There have also been insinuations that Yari may be planning to dump the APC and team up with Atiku who has indicated interest to contest against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election

But Atiku, the statement issued on Tuesday said his meeting with Yari was a chance encounter at the airport during a private journey for the lesser hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Atiku said he met Yari when he was accompanied by associates and family members to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja for the trip. The former Vice President said he exchanged pleasantries with the Zamfara Senator at the airport.

“While waiting at the departure lounge of the airport, the former Vice President had a chance encounter with the former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdulaziz Yari during which the duo greeted and exchanged pleasantries.

“It has, therefore, become necessary to disclaim the false information being circulated in a section of the media that Atiku had a private meeting with Yari, at his residence in Abuja.