Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Reverend Matthew Kukah has said that his involvement in the meeting between Obasanjo and Atiku was not political.
According to him, the meeting was for reconciliation between both men and not him endorsing Atiku’s presidential ambition.
”After our discussion, which was done behind closed doors we prayed and we took photographs and I left afterwards to attend to other spiritual duties. I was earlier offered a sit in their aircraft and although it was the most convenient offer at the time I declined the offer because I saw it as necessary to ensure that I take no favours from any of the two parties. I was not in Abeokuta to endorse Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). I fully understand the feeling of some persons, who believe I traveled with Alhaji Abubakar, to witness his endorsement by Former President Obasanjo but this was not the case at all. I am a strong believer in a peaceful and united Nigeria and this ideals I strive to achieve as a priest. My instincts to always initiate reconciliation and peace were sharpened during my involvement and experience with the Oputa Panel” he said.
