According to Yinusa Tanko Yakasai, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, former vice president Atiku Abubakar may “anoint” Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, to represent the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the general election in 2027.
In response to the ongoing discussion over the ADC’s 2027 presidential ticket and the potential involvement of prominent opposition personalities ahead of the elections, Yakasai commented on TVC’s Politics On Sunday.
When asked what would happen if Atiku stopped Obi from winning the ADC ticket, Yakasai rejected the idea, calling the former vice president a father and a leader.
In addition to being a father, Atiku Abubakar is a leader. He will not even partake in that shenanigan,” he said.
He claims that while the former vice president is free to run, he may also decide to back a different candidate if doing so would increase the party’s chances.
He has the right to anoint someone, but he also has the right to contest. He can, it is within his core human rights as a father who wants to win.
“Winning doesn’t have to be me; I can take you and tell you to win for us because I know you’re competent. It is possible,” Yakasai added.
The comments coincide with escalating debates in opposition circles on the coalition-backed party’s presidential ticket, as Obi’s followers persistently demand that the party leaders nominate their principal as their 2027 presidential candidate.
Meanwhile, the ADC has urged its members and supporters of presidential aspirants against rhetoric capable of separating the party.
Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, delivered the warning during a live audio discussion about the political environment and the status of the country on X, which was formerly Twitter.
In advance of the party’s June primary, Abdullahi asked party members to avoid divisive themes.
