Atiku Abubakar, former vice president of Nigeria and PDP candidate in the 2023 presidential election, recently announced his intention to run again in 2027. This statement sparked many reactions within the Nigerian political class.
Atiku had previously expressed his intention to remain engaged in politics even after losing the 2023 election. He had said: “As for me and my party, this phase of our work is over. However, I am not going to disappear. As long as I breathe, I will continue to fight with other Nigerians to deepen our democracy and the rule of law, and for the kind of political and economic restructuring that the country needs to reach its true potential.”
His spokesperson, Daniel Bwala, recently confirmed that his principal was ready to run for president in 2027. He described the former vice president as the president Nigeria never had, praising his abilities, his wisdom and knowledge.
However, the ruling APC party described Atiku’s presidential ambition for 2027 as the most laughable news of 2024. APC communications director Bala Ibrahim said the announcement showed that the former vice president was surrounded by people who wouldn’t tell him the truth. He advised Atiku to abandon politics because he has never been a force to be reckoned with and will not be in 2027.
This statement by Atiku and the reactions to it highlight the political divisions that persist in Nigeria and the appetite for power of key political players. While some argue that Atiku has the experience and skills to lead the country, others believe his political influence has waned and he no longer poses a threat to the ruling party.
Regardless, Atiku’s decision to run again in 2027 will certainly impact the Nigerian political landscape and spark heated debates. The next few years will be crucial to see whether Atiku can rally enough support for his candidacy and whether the country will be ready to give him another chance to lead. Nigeria’s political future remains uncertain, but one thing is certain: the competition for power has only just begun.