Senator Adams Oshiomhole has accused former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of spending much of his time in Dubai and returning to Nigeria mainly when presidential elections approach.
Oshiomhole made the allegation on Monday, November 2, 2026, during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally in Calabar, Cross River State.
The Edo North senator questioned Atiku’s connection with Nigerians, arguing that living outside the country prevents him from experiencing their everyday challenges.
“Atiku lives in Dubai. He comes to Nigeria on the eve of every election to contest. He does not live here. He does not know what the people are going through,” Oshiomhole said.
Oshiomhole Questions Atiku’s Connection With Nigerians
The former APC National Chairman alleged that Atiku repeatedly returns to Nigeria when presidential elections approach.
He also claimed that the former Vice-President comes back to obtain presidential nomination forms and pursue his political ambition.
Oshiomhole argued that a political leader who does not regularly live among Nigerians may struggle to understand their daily difficulties.
However, the remarks represent Oshiomhole’s allegations. The report did not provide an independent confirmation of Atiku’s alleged residence pattern.
Senator Criticises Opposition Unity Ahead of 2027
Oshiomhole also questioned the relationship between Atiku and other opposition figures, including Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi.
He claimed that opposition leaders were divided and focused on their disagreements rather than building a united political front.
According to him, the divisions could benefit President Bola Tinubu and the APC in the 2027 presidential election.
The remarks came as political parties and prominent figures continued preparations ahead of the next general election.
Atiku is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while Obi and Amaechi are among the opposition figures mentioned by Oshiomhole.
Oshiomhole’s comments formed part of the APC’s campaign activities in Cross River State.
