The party’s Deputy Publicity Secretary, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, made this known while speaking on emerging political movements ahead of the polls.

He said the discussions involved the NDC National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, adding that consultations with both opposition figures had been ongoing for some time.

Speaking in an interview with Punch, Abdulsalam explained that there were indications of a possible alliance, though he stopped short of making a definitive confirmation.

He said, “Well, the most I can tell you is that they have been interfacing with our leader for quite some time. Also, do not forget that there is a possibility of an alliance that has been under discussion for quite some time.

“So, with the legal twist we are witnessing now, the legal uncertainties, I think there might be some credence to that. However, I cannot categorically confirm to you that it is true, but you should know that, to a very large extent, there is a possibility of it happening.”

The NDC spokesperson added that the party would be open to welcoming both Obi and Kwankwaso if they eventually decide to join its platform.

He further revealed that their names were reportedly received from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) about a month earlier.

Abdulsalam said, “Obi is most welcome at the party, not just him, even Kwankwaso too. They have discussed with our national leaders, so you should just watch out.

“We received their names about a month ago from the ADC. We are willing to give them the presidential ticket. We are willing to, you know, only Providence, except if Providence decides otherwise, we are willing, and they will join us.”

A source at the Presidential Villa, who spoke with The Nation, confirmed that the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Special Adviser to the President on Political and Other Matters, Ibrahim Masari, held a meeting with National Assembly leaders.

Those present included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

The source further revealed that after the engagement with National Assembly leaders at the Villa, the Presidential Supervision Team on National Assembly Primaries also met with members of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF).

According to the source, the meetings were prompted by multiple petitions submitted to President Bola Tinubu over alleged moves by some governors to dominate or influence National Assembly primaries in APC-controlled states.

“The President has received many petitions on how the governors have been trying to hijack National Assembly primaries in APC states. There is so much tension,” the source said.

The source added that the Presidential Supervision Team was established to promote peace, oversee and monitor the primary process, and manage disputes before, during, and after the elections.

Possible Direct Presidential Intervention

The source also disclosed that where consensus cannot be reached, President Tinubu may instruct the party to conduct open, credible, and transparent primaries among all aspirants.

“Where there is no agreement, the President will direct the party to organise credible and transparent primaries among the aspirants,” the source said.

It was further explained that the team is supporting the APC National Working Committee in addressing emerging internal challenges, with more meetings expected in the coming days.

However, the source stressed that final decisions rest with the President, noting, “The buck stops on the President’s table.”