Joe Igbokwe, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has dismissed the idea of Atiku Abubakar running for president in 2027.
In a post on his Facebook page, Igbokwe explained that the former Vice President’s dream of winning the 2027 election was highly unlikely.
According to Igbokwe, the 2027 race would not work in Atiku’s favour, and he advised the Adamawa-born politician to focus on 2031 instead.
“Former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, is still struggling and dreaming to be president of Nigeria in 2027,” Igbokwe wrote.
He argued that Atiku’s presidential ambition was not realistic, considering the political landscape and his age.
Igbokwe made it clear that he believed the 2027 election was not the right moment for Atiku to pursue the presidency.
“It cannot fly, all things considered. He should wait till 2031. Even at that, age is not on his side,” Igbokwe added.
Igbokwe’s comments were a response to ongoing political discussions about the future of Nigeria’s leadership.
The APC chieftain also touched on Atiku’s age, which he believes could be a major disadvantage in his political ambitions.
Atiku Abubakar, who is in his late 70s, has previously contested for the presidency multiple times, including in 2019 and 2023.
Despite his many attempts, Atiku has yet to win the presidency, which raises questions about his chances in 2027.
Igbokwe’s remarks highlight growing concerns about the leadership direction of Nigeria and the future of political players like Atiku.
The timing of Igbokwe’s statement coincides with remarks made by George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Akume recently suggested that no politician from the North should run against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.
This has sparked further debate about the political future of northern politicians, including Atiku.
Many believe that the 2027 election will be crucial for Nigeria, as it will determine the direction of the nation in the coming years.
Igbokwe’s suggestion that Atiku should wait until 2031 echoes the sentiment that a change in leadership might be necessary.
His comments also reflect concerns about the increasing age of many Nigerian leaders.
While Igbokwe’s statement may be controversial, it has sparked a wider conversation about the role of age in politics and the need for younger leaders.
Atiku, who is a founding member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has been a key figure in Nigerian politics for decades.
He has served as Vice President under Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007 and has made several unsuccessful attempts to become president.
Despite his previous losses, Atiku remains a major force in Nigerian politics and has a significant following.
However, Igbokwe’s comments suggest that the time may not be right for Atiku to attempt another presidential run.
Political analysts have pointed out that the 2027 election will likely be a tough race, with several major candidates vying for the presidency.
Igbokwe’s suggestion that Atiku should wait until 2031 also raises questions about the future of political competition in Nigeria.
With the possibility of younger and newer candidates emerging, Atiku may face increased challenges in 2027.
While Igbokwe’s remarks are aimed at discouraging Atiku’s 2027 ambition, they also highlight a broader issue within Nigerian politics – the question of succession.
As Nigeria looks to the future, many are calling for new ideas and fresh leadership to address the country’s ongoing challenges.
Atiku Abubakar has been a dominant figure in Nigerian politics for years, but whether he will have a chance to lead the nation in 2027 remains uncertain.
