Atiku Abubakar, the perennial political coaster, is back on track—announcing he will run for president in 2027, brushing off any rumours of backing down and pledging that his newly minted ADC coalition is primed to “shock the world.”
A Comeback That’s Less “Surprise” And More “Here We Go Again”
Atiku’s declaration is anything but shocking. This is Nigeria’s political version of a boomerang—no matter how many times he’s thrown himself at the presidency (1993, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023), he just keeps spinning back.
But this time, he wants you to know he’s not desperate—no sir—his quest is grounded in “rescuing Nigeria from the ICU,” not clinging to power.
Tell that to critics who say it’s starting to look more like a second-hand shopping spree for old politicians.
The Coalition Plot: ADC Is The New “It” Crowd
Atiku is hitching his wagon to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He claims this coalition will leave “doubters dumbstruck.” Dramatic? Absolutely. But we’ve heard those words before.
Yet skepticism abounds. Political analyst Jide Ojo warns that any coalition centered on Atiku is “dead on arrival”, arguing Nigerians want fresh faces—not recycled political tropes.
Age, Ambition, And The “Statesman” vs. “Time To Retire” Debate
Let’s talk age. Atiku will be about 80 in 2027. Some, like Ayodele Fayose, suggest it’s time to “leave the stage when the ovation is loudest.”
But others defend his rights. PDP insider Segun Sowunmi insists that contesting is a constitutional right and no amount of persuasion—or bullying—should stop him.
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So, is this a statesman’s burden or an octogenarian’s stubborn encore? You tell me.
Enter The Critics: From Tinubu’s Camp To “Failed Politicians”
On the other side, APC loyalists like Henry Ajomale slam the coalition as a self-serving gang of “failed, disgruntled” politicians, bent on power rather than public service.
A pro‑Jonathan group also chimed in, saying figures like Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso wouldn’t stand a chance against Tinubu—unless the opposition unites under one candidate or risk being steamrolled in 2027.
The Plot Thickens: Will Obi, Kwankwaso, Or Amaechi Steal The Spotlight?
Meanwhile, political whisperers say Peter Obi may run solo—or a new coalition could rally behind Rotimi Amaechi as a compromise candidate.
But Atiku’s team is doubling down on ADC and promising a “shock the world” moment—whether that’s electricity or political fireworks remains to be seen.
Beyond The Campaign
Atiku’s announcement isn’t just a campaign—it’s Nigerian politics doing what it does best: drama, controversy, and the never-ending rerun of political ambition.
Whether it ends in a shock, a flop, or a faint whisper, one thing’s certain: by 2027, either Nigeria will have a new president, or the saga of Atiku will have added another chapter—and probably another “I’m not desperate” speech.
