Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Sunday dismissed speculations surrounding his recent trip to Morocco, insisting that the visit was strictly for a family wedding ceremony and not connected to politics or coalition talks ahead of the 2027 elections.
Atiku stated this in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, in Abuja, to clarify the issue.
The clarification followed growing public interest in the former presidential candidate’s foreign engagements amid ongoing political realignments within the opposition camp.
Shaibu said Atiku travelled to Marrakech, Morocco, where he chaired the wedding ceremony of Cherina and Muna Okey Ezeibe on Saturday.
“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.
He explained that the event drew dignitaries, family members and close associates from across Africa in what he described as a ceremony marked by elegance and symbolism.
The aide further noted that the ceremony held deep personal significance for Atiku because of his longstanding relationship with the groom’s father, businessman Okey Ezeibe.
“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 statement further disclosed that the bride’s father, Lassina Zerbo, a former Prime Minister of Burkina Faso, was also present at the event, underscoring the cross-border significance of the union.
The statement added that Atiku, who chaired the ceremony, described marriage as “a sacred institution built on love, sacrifice, patience, and mutual respect,” and prayed for peace, prosperity and lasting happiness for the couple.
“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.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 election, has remained a central figure in opposition politics and coalition discussions ahead of the next general elections.
