Presidency Criticizes Atiku Over Power Rotation Remarks, Says He 'Never Learns'

Presidency Blasts Atiku Over Power Rotation Comments, Accuses Him of Disruption

The Nigerian presidency has issued a sharp condemnation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his recent remarks on the zoning and rotation of power between the North and South regions of the country. In an interview with Arise Television on Wednesday, April 15, Atiku stated that he is not bound by any zoning formula and is prepared to contest for the presidency, sparking a heated rebuttal from the presidency.

Atiku's Argument: Constitution Over Zoning

During the extensive interview, Atiku Abubakar asserted that, according to the provisions of the Nigerian constitution, he is not obligated to follow any power rotation arrangement arbitrarily imposed by political parties. He further claimed that since the inception of democratic rule in 1999, southerners have spent more time in power than northerners, suggesting it is the North's turn to lead. Atiku also defended his wealth, stating it was accumulated before his political career and has not led to credible corruption charges.

Presidency's Rebuttal: Atiku 'Never Learns'

In response, Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, rebuked Atiku's comments as deliberately mischievous and self-serving. Onanuga explained that the presidency views Atiku's stance as an attempt to disrupt the established rotational arrangement of power, which he has consistently challenged. He emphasized that the North's shorter tenure was due to the untimely death of President Umaru Yar'Adua, leading to President Goodluck Jonathan's succession, and this does not invalidate the rotation principle.

—

Wide Pickt banner — collaborative shopping lists app for Telegram, phone mockup with grocery list

Onanuga stated:"He conveniently overlooks the fact that the North’s shorter tenure was due to the untimely death of President Umaru Yar’Adua, which led to President Jonathan’s succession. This accidental breach does not invalidate the power rotation arrangement between the North and the South. Since Buhari completed his eight years, Tinubu too must complete his own. All Atiku needs to do is to bury the thought of running again, as it is still the South's turn in the 2027 election."

Atiku's Political Ambitions and Coalition Building

In the same interview, Atiku made provocative statements about his suitability for the presidency, criticizing President Tinubu's performance and claiming greater influence than competitors like Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, whom he said is primarily known in Kano. Atiku also expressed willingness to support any consensus candidate within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, clarifying that the focus should be on unity rather than withdrawal.

The presidency's criticism underscores ongoing tensions over power rotation in Nigerian politics, with Atiku positioning himself as a relentless aspirant despite opposition from the current administration. This exchange highlights the deep-seated debates surrounding electoral fairness and regional representation as the country approaches future elections.