The Nigerian presidency has broken its silence on the renewed political ambition of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, revealing that he was among the key political figures who endorsed the rotational presidency system in the country. Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), made this disclosure during a press conference regarding the upcoming June 12 celebrations marking Nigeria's 27th Democracy Day anniversary.
Historical Context of the Rotational Presidency
Akume explained that the decision to rotate presidential power between the southern and northern regions was reached after extensive consultations among leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. This annulment had plunged the nation into a severe political crisis. According to Akume, a crucial meeting was convened in Kaduna, organized by the late Chief Solomon Lar and Alhaji Adamu Ciroma, where the issue of power rotation was considered essential for maintaining Nigeria's unity and democratic stability.
Atiku's Current Political Moves
Atiku Abubakar, who is the 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has been actively engaging with stakeholders. He recently held a meeting with ADC leaders in the North East region, signaling his continued preparations for the upcoming elections. The SGF's comments come amid renewed debates over the zoning of the presidency, especially after Atiku's emergence as the ADC flagbearer.
Public Reactions to Atiku's Ambition
The development has sparked intense reactions from Nigerians, with many taking to social media to express their views. Some have called on Atiku to step down and support a younger candidate, while others have defended his political experience and contributions. Below are some notable reactions:
- Moni Ukpeya urged Atiku to support a southern candidate: "Dear Atiku, kindly save yourself the stress, step aside and support a more vibrant and competent candidate in the person of Peter Obi. Posterity will judge you fairly if you yield to good senses."
- Morah Richard expressed skepticism: "Atiku them go chop your dollars finish for this coming election, and you will run mad when you find out that you didn't get up to 3 million votes after spending your last card lolz."
- Mr Phaj defended Atiku: "I wonder how our Nigerian youths think sometimes. This man here is supposed to be well appreciated rather than insulted. The man who single handedly fought Obasanjo's third term agenda and also Tinubu's one party state agenda. Vent your anger on APC, who put you in this situation rather than the wrong fight."
- Eleda4g commented: "This ADC move is nothing but preparation for 2027 by the same old brigade. But Obidients know that the future does not belong to recycled politicians. Peter Obi is the only one with the competence, character, and capacity to fix Nigeria without all this drama."
Atiku Meets with Amaechi
In a related development, Atiku recently hosted former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi at his residence in Abuja. This was their second meeting since the ADC presidential primaries, fueling speculation that Amaechi might become Atiku's running mate for the 2027 elections. The political landscape continues to evolve as key figures align ahead of the general elections.
