Mischievous Lies!’ — Saraki Denies Supporting Tinubu’s Re-Election Bid

The clarification followed claims by an aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Demola Olanrewaju, who interpreted Saraki’s recent comments on power rotation as indirect support for Tinubu.

In a statement issued in Abuja by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki dismissed the claims as misleading and described them as “mischievous.”

He explained that his position—that the presidency should remain in the South for eight years—should not be interpreted as backing any specific individual.

Olaniyonu emphasised that Saraki is known for being straightforward and does not make ambiguous or coded statements, noting that he has consistently stood by his principles regardless of political consequences.

The statement also clarified that Saraki’s stance on zoning is longstanding, pointing out that he was among key figures who supported the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in zoning its 2027 presidential ticket to the South.

It stressed that this position does not amount to support for any particular aspirant, as several candidates from the region are expected to contest.

Saraki, according to the statement, has maintained that he will wait for the PDP to conclude its internal processes and present a candidate before declaring his support.

He also reiterated his view that the presidency should return to the North by 2031, making his stance on power rotation clear.

The media office accused some political actors of deliberately misrepresenting his comments for personal gain, warning that such actions are aimed at creating confusion within the opposition and shaping public perception for political advantage.