Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has rejected calls to step down in favor of a Southern presidential candidate, insisting that he will not abandon his constitutional right to aspire.
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has rejected calls to step down in favor of a Southern presidential candidate, insisting that he will not abandon his constitutional right to aspire.
Atiku made this known after a closed-door meeting with leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he emphasized the need for open and transparent primaries.
*“No Pressure Will Make Me Step Down”*
Atiku stated emphatically, “I will not be pressured into abandoning my constitutional right to aspire.
“Let every qualified member test their popularity through a credible primary.
“Zoning must not be used to silence competence.”
This declaration has sparked a fierce backlash from members of the Obidient Movement, who insist that Peter Obi is the only acceptable candidate.
*“Obidients Threaten to Pull Out”*
The Obidients have declared that if Atiku insists on contesting, they will pull out of the coalition. “It’s either Obi or we pull out,” they say.
This development has put the coalition on the brink, with party insiders warning that it may collapse before it even begins.
*“Coalition on the Brink”*
The friction between Atiku’s camp and the Obidients has raised concerns about the coalition’s ability to build a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political watchers say both sides refuse to shift ground, and if not quickly addressed, this friction may derail the coalition’s efforts.
*“Merit-Based Contest vs. Zoning”*
The debate centers around merit-based contest versus zoning, with Atiku’s camp arguing for the former and the Obidients pushing for the latter.
As the situation stands, the future of the ADC coalition hangs in the balance.