Atiku Speaks on 2027 Presidential Ambition, Calls for Strong Opposition Coalition

Atiku Speaks on 2027 Presidential Ambition, Calls for Strong Opposition Coalition

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed growing speculation about his potential candidacy in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election. In a recent interview on Untold Stories with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, Atiku clarified that he has not yet decided whether to run, emphasizing the urgent need for a united opposition to challenge the ruling party.

Atiku Stresses Importance of Opposition Unity

The seasoned politician highlighted the significance of forging a formidable opposition alliance before any discussions about individual candidacies. He referenced the 2014 merger that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), underscoring how collaboration among political figures played a critical role in securing victory.

“I don’t know [if I will run], because there has to be, first of all, a viable platform,” Atiku stated. “More than ever in our political history since the return of democracy, the opposition must be strong and united.”

Atiku, who has run for the presidency multiple times, is currently spearheading efforts to consolidate opposition forces against President Bola Tinubu’s administration. However, the question of leadership within this coalition remains open, with notable figures like Peter Obi of the Labour Party and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai being considered as key players.

Concerns Over Nigeria’s Governance and Democracy

Beyond electoral matters, Atiku expressed deep concerns about the state of governance and democracy in Nigeria. He echoed sentiments previously raised by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, warning that Nigeria’s democratic principles are weakening.

“The current state of governance is very troubling. Many of us who have been in politics for decades have seen a decline rather than progress,” he remarked. He also criticized the National Assembly’s handling of the state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that such political decisions should prioritize the well-being of the people.

Future Political Landscape

While Atiku remains non-committal about his own candidacy, his calls for opposition unity suggest that Nigeria’s 2027 election could be shaped by coalition politics. With growing discontent over governance and economic challenges, political analysts believe that a well-structured opposition could present a formidable challenge to the ruling party.

As the 2027 election cycle approaches, all eyes remain on Atiku and other prominent opposition figures to see whether they can successfully form a coalition capable of mounting a credible challenge against President Tinubu’s government.