A former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has revealed details of the discussions that took place during a meeting in Minna, Niger State, between former military Head of State Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
Fayose disclosed that Makinde consented to partner with Atiku as his vice-presidential candidate on the platform of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.
He also alleged that Peter Obi was effectively sidelined during the conversation because of concerns that he would neither agree to deputise Atiku nor gain acceptance in the North as a potential successor.
In a statement he personally signed, Fayose said, “It is no longer news that the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, went to Minna, Niger State, yesterday to hold a meeting with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“Here is what happened behind the curtains. Venue and personalities involved in the meeting were carefully chosen so as to ensure confidence and acceptability.
“Consideration was given to the fact that Peter Obi will not accept to be Atiku’s running mate and he won’t also be acceptable to the North, as Atiku’s successor.
“Also, Atiku is 70% certain of getting the ADC ticket, having ensured the non-zoning of the party’s presidential ticket.
“Makinde agreed to join ADC on the condition that he will be handed the party’s Vice Presidential ticket, as Atiku’s running mate. This is expected to be presented to Atiku’s inner caucus for further discussions and ratification.
“Makinde offered to make available a sum of N10bn (to be released in two tranches), as his initial contribution towards what he called ‘proper take-off of the ADC,’ and make additional funds available when campaign begins.
“The Governor also assured that for the ADC primary, he will deliver the Southwest delegates and use the influence of his wife, who is from Rivers State, to secure delegate votes in the South-South.
“He posited that for the general election, using him to divide the Southwest votes will give the ADC the needed advantage. Follow up meeting has been fixed for Dubai, UAE within the next two weeks.”
