Atiku Signals 2027 Election Could Be His Final Presidential Bid
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar signaled that the 2027 presidential election could be his final attempt to lead Nigeria, citing his approaching 80th birthday and the heightened stakes of the contest. He made these comments during a live interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, stating he believes 2027 will be 'my last outing' in pursuit of the presidency.
Atiku emphasized he would respect the outcome of a credible primary process within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he's widely believed to be positioning himself. He specifically said he would step aside for any winner, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, stating 'Of course, if he is a contender, why not?' He stressed that leadership emergence must be anchored in either consensus or transparent electoral process, dismissing suggestions that stepping aside for Obi would be politically difficult.
He asserted his enduring political influence in Northern Nigeria, arguing that no current or emerging northern leader commands a voter base comparable to his. Atiku specifically downplayed Rabiu Kwankwaso's reach, describing his support as largely confined to Kano State and now split with Governor Abba Yusuf. He has long advocated for economic reforms centered on liberalisation, privatisation, and private-sector-led growth, plus restructuring to devolve powers to states.
With Atiku potentially exiting the race after 2027, how might opposition coalitions shift if he endorses another candidate like Peter Obi or Rabiu Kwankwaso, and what does this mean for voters seeking alternatives to the current ruling party?