Makinde had earlier confirmed that he was engaged in discussions with Atiku and the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi.

However, a report by The Punch indicates that the negotiations between Atiku and Makinde are separate from the broader consultations among opposition leaders seeking to present a common presidential candidate against Tinubu.

According to the publication, there are strong indications that the former Vice President and the Oyo governor could eventually work together ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Political figures familiar with the discussions disclosed that representatives of both camps had held several meetings and were making progress towards reaching an agreement.

A South-West leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed optimism about the outcome of the negotiations.

He described the discussions as recent, purposeful and promising, adding that both politicians could formally announce their plans soon.

When asked when the proposed alliance would be made public, the ADC chieftain jokingly responded, “before January 16,” accompanied by a laughing emoji in a text message.

Similarly, a candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), who is familiar with Makinde’s political activities, expressed confidence that the governor would work with Atiku during the 2027 presidential election.

He explained that the proposed alliance was gradually taking shape following several virtual and physical meetings involving representatives of both political camps.

“The available information is that the Atiku and Makinde alliance is very possible, and it is taking shape. A series of meetings, both virtual and physical, have been held in the last few weeks, and they are fruitful.

“What is on the ground shows that both parties have reached compromises, and they are going to unveil that very soon,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that Makinde was holding discussions with other opposition leaders, although he did not specifically confirm an agreement between the governor and Atiku.

Oyelade described the politicians involved in the consultations as experienced individuals who understand the complexities of contemporary politics, particularly issues surrounding the Tinubu administration.

He added that Makinde was willing to collaborate with other opposition groups if such an arrangement could provide a practical solution to the challenges facing Nigerians.

According to the commissioner, the governor believes that the country must address the growing hardship and poverty affecting citizens.

He stated, “As far as Governor Seyi Makinde is concerned, he is not averse to working directly with other opposition tendencies as long as there’s light at the end of the tunnel to end the unequalled sufferings of the masses, because he believes that the level of renewed poverty is absolutely needless.”

However, the specific details of the negotiations remain unclear, including the proposed structure of the alliance and how the parties intend to resolve possible disagreements over the presidential ticket.

The ADC has also confirmed that opposition parties are continuing consultations on possible collaboration ahead of the 2027 general election.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, maintained that the discussions involved several opposition parties and were not restricted to any particular political figure.

“All opposition parties are still talking. And it’s never too late,” he said in a WhatsApp message to the publication.

Atiku made the allegation on Saturday during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, as part of his ongoing presidential campaign activities in the state.

The former Vice President claimed that an Imam was suspended after leading a congregational prayer he attended at a mosque.

Atiku explained that his visit to the Emir’s palace was intended to demonstrate respect for traditional institutions and their leadership.

Addressing the traditional ruler, he said Bauchi was his home and that he considered it important to pay homage to the Emir.

“Your Royal Highness, for me, this is my home. I came to the palace to pay my respect and honour to our royal father,” he stated.

Atiku also praised Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for allowing him access to the traditional emirate and facilitating his meeting with the Emir.

He noted that in some states he had visited, political authorities allegedly prevented him from meeting traditional rulers and paying his respects.

The ADC presidential candidate, however, expressed concern over what he described as growing interference by politicians in the affairs of traditional institutions.

He cited the alleged suspension of an Imam at a mosque where he had prayed, questioning the authority of a governor to take such action.

According to Atiku, Imams in Northern Nigeria traditionally operate under the authority of paramount traditional rulers, including Emirs, rather than state governors.

He argued that governors occupy temporary political offices, while traditional rulers remain custodians of their institutions and heritage.

Atiku further accused politicians of disregarding established procedures and encroaching on the responsibilities of traditional rulers.

He assured the Emir that such practices would not be tolerated under his administration if given the opportunity to lead the country.

The former Vice President also recalled that traditional rulers maintained authority over religious scholars, clerics and other traditional institutions even before the colonial era.

Atiku concluded by praying for Allah to grant him the opportunity and determination to uphold the interests of traditional institutions and preserve the history and heritage of the people.