Atiku's Aide Alleges Saraki Indirectly Backs Tinubu for Second Term
Demola Olarewaju, a Senior Political Assistant to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has publicly stated that former Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has indirectly endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office. This claim follows Saraki's recent appearance on Channels Television's Politics Today programme, where he discussed the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Saraki's Remarks on PDP Unity and Southern Presidency
During the interview, Saraki, who also served as Governor of Kwara State, was questioned about whether his friendship with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, implied an endorsement of President Tinubu. Saraki responded by emphasizing his focus on party unity, stating, "You can't extrapolate that. My friendship is based on what we are going to do about this party. I found his style, his views might be different, but that PDP must not die. PDP must be able to provide a platform for people to contest elections. That, I do not in any way doubt, is the sincerity where he stands, that's where I stand."
Additionally, Saraki addressed calls for the Presidency to remain in the Southern region, which would favor a Tinubu re-election. He remarked, "Nigerians chose to elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the South in 2023. I think it is only fair, in my view, to allow the South to complete the eight years."
Olarewaju's Reaction and Accusation
In response, Olarewaju interpreted Saraki's words as an indirect endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term. He shared his views on X, writing, "Respect to Sen. Bukola Saraki, but arguing for Southern President while Tinubu is in power is an indirect endorsement of Tinubu's second term and an ignoring of Nigeria's tripartite balance at Independence in 1960, and 6 zone arrangement since 1999."
This statement highlights the political tensions within the PDP and the broader implications for Nigeria's electoral dynamics. Olarewaju's accusation suggests that Saraki's support for Southern presidential continuity undermines historical regional balances, potentially influencing party strategies and public perception ahead of future elections.
