Paul Ibe, the media adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has revealed that his principal personally funded the purchase of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking on Trust TV’s Daily Politics programme, Ibe said Atiku was already wealthy before holding any government office.
According to him, the former vice president did not rely on public resources to build his fortune.
“Atiku single-handedly bought the Wadata Plaza for the PDP. That was how wealthy he was before entering government,” Ibe stated, stressing that the money was legitimate.
Meanwhile, questions have mounted about ownership and legal status of the PDP secretariat property.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) had in May revoked the land title for secretariat site, citing non-payment of ground rent from 2006 to 2025.
Ibe used the opportunity to clear misconceptions about Atiku’s political future. He noted that despite speculations, Atiku has not declared for the 2027 presidential race but is focused on consolidating the coalition with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Ibe further described Atiku as one of Nigeria’s most consistent democrats, saying he has often encouraged open competition in politics.
“As a democrat, Atiku’s policy is the more the merrier. He will never block anyone who feels they have something to offer. Let everyone go to the field and test their popularity,” he added.
The PDP chieftain stressed that Atiku’s political structure remains strong and that his next move will be revealed in due time. “When do you serve a meal? You serve it when it is ready,” Ibe remarked.