Nigeria’s former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, after a recent private meeting with Labor Party’s presidential candidate Peter Obi, has hinted he might back his one-time running mate in the 2027 elections.
This high-profile rendezvous has fueled rumors about possible alliances forming within Nigeria’s opposition parties as they gear up for the 2027 general elections.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, covered by Africa Today News, New York, Atiku discussed the positive implications of his discussions with Obi for the country’s democratic process and national welfare.
Reaffirming the importance of unity among opposition factions, Atiku underscored the importance of collaboration to advance the nation’s interest. He dismissed any suggestion that selecting a presidential candidate could cause disunity within the ranks.
Atiku expressed his readiness to support the party’s decision, even if it meant stepping aside for Peter Obi, especially if the party zones the presidency to the South or specifically the South-East.
He reinforced his commitment to upholding democracy in Nigeria, promising active engagement rather than remaining a silent bystander amidst the nation’s challenges.
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Atiku went on to declare that he is ready to step down to support the former Governor of Anambra State should Nigerians decide so.
“I have said repeatedly and I even said it before the 2023 general elections that if PDP decides to zone the presidential ticket to the South or South-East specifically, I won’t contest it. As long as it’s the decision of the party, I will abide by it. But I contested the 2023 presidential ticket because it was thrown open to all members of the party.
“If the party decides that it’s the turn of the South-East and Peter Obi is chosen, I won’t hesitate to support him.”
Details on the potential coalition and merger discussions are still underway, and Atiku assured Nigerians that they would be informed in due course.
SOURCE: Africa Today News, New York.
