Atiku Abubakar Pressured to Endorse Peter Obi for ADC's 2027 Presidential Bid
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has been publicly urged to throw his support behind Peter Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, to become the flagbearer of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the upcoming 2027 general elections. This significant political development comes as opposition figures jockey for position ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Obidient Movement Leader Makes Direct Appeal
Yunusa Tanko Yakasai, the National Coordinator of the influential Obidient Movement, made the direct appeal to Atiku Abubakar during discussions about the ADC's future direction. Yakasai emphasized the importance of unity among opposition forces and positioned Peter Obi as a crucial figure for the ADC's success in 2027.
"Atiku should anoint Peter Obi as the ADC presidential candidate," Yakasai stated, describing the former vice president as "a leader and father" within Nigerian politics. This call comes amid ongoing debates about how opposition parties can effectively challenge the ruling party in the next election.
Mixed Reactions from Obidient Supporters
The proposal has generated significant discussion among Obidient Movement supporters, with many expressing strong opinions about their political preferences:
- Olamilekan declared: "It is OBI as presidential candidate or nothing. 2027 is different from 2019. He won't and MUST not vice Atiku."
- Okafor Chidozie emphasized the independence of Obidient supporters: "Obidients are not zombies. We follow Obi because we believe in his leadership."
- Atomic warned about vote transferability: "The ADC must understand that Obidient votes are not transferable."
ADC Leadership Responds
Dele Momodu, a prominent ADC chieftain, responded positively to Yakasai's interview, commending the Obidient Coordinator for his position. Momodu shared the interview clip on social media and expressed appreciation for Yakasai's affirmation that the Peter Obi group would remain within the ADC even if Obi doesn't secure the presidential ticket.
However, this endorsement has further divided Obidient supporters, with many insisting they will only support Peter Obi as a presidential candidate and rejecting any alternative arrangements.
Political Implications for 2027
The ongoing debate highlights several critical factors for Nigeria's political landscape:
- The growing influence of the Obidient Movement in determining opposition strategies
- Potential realignments within opposition parties ahead of 2027
- The challenge of unifying diverse political interests against the ruling party
- The delicate balance between party loyalty and candidate popularity
As the 2027 elections approach, these discussions will likely intensify, with the ADC's decision about its presidential candidate carrying significant implications for Nigeria's opposition politics. The pressure on Atiku Abubakar to support Peter Obi represents just one facet of the complex negotiations unfolding within Nigerian opposition circles.
