Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed claims by ex-Ekiti State Governor Peter Ayodele Fayose, describing him as a “serial political gossip” and urging the public to disregard his so-called stories about vice-presidential arrangements.
Atiku clarified that during his recent visit to the residence of former Head of State Ibrahim Babangida, there were no discussions or negotiations regarding vice-presidential tickets.
Fayose had alleged that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde agreed to run as Atiku’s running mate in exchange for a ₦10 billion contribution, a claim Atiku’s camp calls entirely false.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, Phrank Shaibu, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku, said, “Our attention has been drawn to a reckless fabrication titled ‘Between Atiku and Makinde, Untold Story of What Happened in Minna Yesterday,’ attributed to Peter Fayose.”
“Let it be stated clearly: the entire publication is a shameless concoction—a tissue of lies stitched together by a serial purveyor of political gossip.”
Shaibu added that there were no secret deals, zoning manipulations, or financial arrangements as alleged.
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar’s political engagements are broad-based, principled, and national in scope—not the narrow, transactional theatrics invented in that publication.”
“Falsehood may trend briefly, but it collapses under the weight of truth,” the statement read.
The statement advised the public to treat Fayose’s claims with contempt and reiterated that Atiku conducts politics transparently, without secret deals, bribery, or transactional desperation.
