Nigeria’s Former Vice President and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Atiku Abubakar, says supporting Peter Obi for the 2027 presidential election will not be a problem if he gets the party’s nod as its candidate.
Atiku stated that; “I have said repeatedly, and I even said it before the 2023 general elections, that if the PDP decides to zone the presidential ticket to the South or South-East specifically, I won’t contest it.”
Speaking in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, the Wazirin Adamawa further said; “As long as it’s the decision of the party, I will abide by it. But I contested the 2023 presidential ticket because it was thrown open to all members of the party.
“If the party decides that it’s the turn of the South-East and Peter Obi is chosen, I won’t hesitate to support him.”
He also explained that meeting with the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate during the week was a routine interaction between opposition members that is beneficial for the country’s democracy, adding; “It’s just a normal friendly meeting that we often have, particularly among us in the opposition parties. Such meetings are healthy for Nigeria’s democracy and in the country’s interest”.
The PDP presidential flag bearer, who also indicated that a merger between the PDP and the Labour Party is a possibility, said; “Yes, it is very much possible. We can merge to achieve a common goal, and nothing can stop us if we so wish to achieve that.”
On suggestions that choosing a presidential candidate could frustrate merger discussions and plans, the former Vice President said; “The choice of who will fly the flag of the party won’t be an issue”, emphasising that Nigeria must always come first before personal interest.
Also stressing that being committed to active politics is the overall good of the nation, Atiku said; “We can’t keep quiet and watch things go wrong. People are suffering, and we are committed to making Nigeria a better place.”
Addressing issues around remaining in politics despite his age, the PDP Chieftain said; “Not at all. I am still in active politics in Nigeria, at least, as long as God permits. Everybody, irrespective of age, is allowed to aspire to be anybody in society, politically or otherwise.”
He also spoke about his presidential ambition come 2027, saying; “That would depend on the decision of my party. I can’t make any categorical statements on that. The party has to decide on the way to go in the next election. Until that time comes, let’s just wait and see how it will turn out.”
Maintaining that his recent meetings with political figures should not be interpreted as solely for election purposes, Atiku said; “I must not be eyeing elections to have meetings with political friends and associates. Currently, we are practising democracy in this country, which we fought for with our blood.”
Aside from the private meeting that the former Vice President held with Peter Obi and other PDP leaders in Abuja, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate also separately visited former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido and former Senate President Bukola Saraki, which fueled speculations about a possible coalition of opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.
