The All Progressives Congress (APC) has brushed aside the reported intention of Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, to contest the 2027 presidential election. Bala Ibrahim, the APC Director of Publicity, labeled Atiku’s ambition as “the most laughable news of 2024,” asserting that the former vice-president would face defeat once again.
Atiku’s spokesperson, Daniel Bwala, confirmed the 2027 bid, emphasizing Atiku’s capacity, wisdom, and knowledge. Bwala described Atiku as the president Nigeria never had, citing his understanding of the private sector.
The PDP Deputy Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, welcomed Atiku’s decision, countering concerns that it might destabilize the party. He emphasized the importance of ambition in politics, stating that promoting it is crucial for the party’s vitality.
However, the APC publicity director, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed Atiku’s political value, asserting that Atiku could never be a threat to the APC in the 2027 election. He advised Atiku to retire from politics, claiming he was being misled by his associates.
Some opposition parties, including the New Nigeria People’s Party, acknowledged Atiku’s right to pursue his ambitions but deemed it premature to discuss the 2027 election. The Labour Party threw support behind Peter Obi, emphasizing the need for fresh leadership and expressing weariness of “old stock” politicians.
In contrast, the Social Democratic Party recognized Atiku’s right to run but clarified that their party would field a candidate in 2027. Omoyele Sowore, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Action African Alliance, dismissed Atiku as a serial loser.
Youth advocacy groups called for a shift towards younger leaders. Rotimi Olawale of YouthHub Africa encouraged older politicians to support the emergence of younger aspirants, while the Young Progressives Party highlighted their preference for young, visionary leaders.
As Atiku signals his political return, the landscape is marked by skepticism from the APC, varied reactions from opposition parties, and a call for a generational shift in leadership. The 2027 presidential race is already drawing diverse perspectives within Nigeria’s political arena.
