Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s media team has denied claims linking his recent trip to Morocco with political negotiations or coalition-building efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The clarification was issued on Sunday in Abuja by Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, following widespread speculation over the purpose of the former presidential candidate’s foreign trip.
According to Shaibu, Atiku travelled to Marrakech to preside over the wedding ceremony of Cherina and Muna Okey Ezeibe, which took place on Saturday, stressing that the visit had no political undertones.
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, yesterday chaired the wedding ceremony of Cherina and Muna Okey Ezeibe in the enchanting city of Marrakech, Morocco, in what was a remarkable celebration of love, friendship, family, and African unity.
“The event has nothing to do with politics,” the statement read.
Shaibu explained that the ceremony attracted prominent guests, relatives and associates from different African countries, describing the gathering as both symbolic and culturally significant.
He added that the occasion carried personal importance for Atiku because of his long-standing relationship with businessman Okey Ezeibe, the groom’s father.
“At the heart of the celebration were the proud parents of the groom, Mr and Mrs Okey Ezeibe, who watched with immense joy as their son began a new chapter of life.
“The occasion held special significance given the longstanding friendship and enduring relationship between Okey Ezeibe and His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, a bond built over many years of mutual respect and camaraderie.”
The aide also revealed that the bride’s father, Lassina Zerbo, the former Prime Minister of Burkina Faso, attended the ceremony, highlighting the international and cross-cultural nature of the event.
Shaibu further disclosed that Atiku, while addressing guests during the ceremony, described marriage as “a sacred institution built on love, sacrifice, patience, and mutual respect,” while offering prayers for peace, prosperity and enduring happiness for the newlyweds.
“Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Marrakech, the ceremony was not merely the union of two individuals, but a celebration of friendship across borders, cultural harmony, and the timeless values that bind families together,” Shaibu added.
The statement comes amid heightened public attention on Atiku’s political activities and consultations within opposition circles ahead of the 2027 elections.
Atiku, who contested the 2023 presidential election as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, continues to play a prominent role in ongoing discussions surrounding opposition alliances and political realignments.
