Sule Lamido, former Jigawa State governor and senior figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has emphasized that his long-standing personal relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not prevent him from opposing the President in the 2027 presidential election. Lamido made the statement following a recent public encounter in Kaduna, where the two leaders were seen having a friendly conversation.

The meeting took place last Friday during the wedding of former Zamfara Governor Abdulaziz Yari’s son. Observers noted Lamido and Tinubu joking and laughing, an unusual sight given their positions on opposing sides of Nigeria’s political spectrum.

Speaking to the BBC, Lamido clarified that his friendship with Tinubu, dating back to the 1990s when both were members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), would not impede his efforts to unite Nigerian politicians and strengthen opposition initiatives. Recounting a brief exchange at the Sultan Bello Mosque in Kaduna, Lamido shared, “We know each other very well, but we haven’t met in a while, and now he is the President of Nigeria. I told him, ‘You look nice.’ He also told me, ‘Is that how you have changed? Sule, I love you because you are trustworthy.’ We laughed and left.”

Despite the cordial interaction, Lamido stressed that his main objective remains to oppose the APC government led by President Tinubu. He highlighted recent political dynamics, including a visit from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, acknowledging shifting alliances while reaffirming his commitment to the PDP. Lamido emphasized the importance of dialogue across party lines to ensure national progress.

He further detailed the PDP’s ongoing efforts to resolve internal crises, maintain open communication with members, and pursue compromises for the benefit of Nigerians rather than personal gain. Lamido underscored that every citizen has the right to approach the President and speak the truth if they perceive wrongdoings.

In a related development, the Lagos State Chapter of the APC dismissed the Africa Democratic Congress’ (ADC) claim that President Tinubu would serve only one term, labeling it speculative and unfounded.