Abuja – Former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has vehemently refuted claims that he received campaign financing from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, dismissing the reports as “a blatant lie from the pit of hell.”
In a strongly worded statement released by his media office, Atiku described the allegations as a politically motivated fabrication designed to tarnish his reputation and undermine opposition unity ahead of future elections. The statement categorically denied any financial dealings with Governor Sanwo-Olu, emphasizing that the two politicians have never met.
Key Points of Denial:
- Atiku’s camp challenged the credibility of unnamed sources claiming EFCC investigation into the matter
- Described the story as “kindergarten propaganda” from Tinubu’s political camp
- Questioned the logic of alleged financial transactions between political opponents during an election
- Suggested the rumors aim to damage Sanwo-Olu’s standing within APC circles
The former Vice President’s team framed the allegations as part of broader political maneuvers, alleging they serve two purposes: weakening Sanwo-Olu’s position in Lagos politics and disrupting opposition coalition-building efforts where Atiku plays a leading role.
Atiku’s statement included a direct challenge to the EFCC, demanding full transparency if any investigation exists: “We challenge the anti-corruption agency to make public the outcome of its alleged investigation…including to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi.”
Political analysts note these developments occur amid growing tensions within Nigeria’s opposition bloc and rumored discord in Lagos APC leadership circles. The allegations and subsequent denial highlight the increasingly contentious atmosphere as the country approaches the 2027 election cycle.
