Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, stated that he will support Peter Obi in 2027 if the party decides it is the South-East’s turn and selects Obi as its candidate.
“I have consistently said, even before the 2023 general elections, that if the PDP zones the presidential ticket to the South or specifically the South-East, I will not contest it. As long as it’s the party’s decision, I will respect it. I contested the 2023 ticket because it was open to all party members.
“If the party decides that it’s the South-East’s turn and chooses Peter Obi, I will readily support him,” Atiku affirmed in a recent interview with BBC Hausa Service.
He also mentioned that a merger between the PDP and the Labour Party is possible.
Atiku stated that the party members will determine his role in the 2027 general elections.
The former Vice President noted that his recent meeting with Peter Obi might suggest a potential alliance for the 2027 elections.
When asked about the meeting with Obi, Atiku responded, “It was just a routine friendly meeting that we often have, especially among those of us in the opposition parties. Such meetings are beneficial for Nigeria’s democracy and in the country’s interest.”
When asked about a potential merger, he said, “Yes, it’s very much possible. We can merge to achieve a common goal. If we wish to achieve that, nothing can stop it.”
The former Vice President dismissed concerns that selecting a presidential candidate might hinder merger discussions, stating, “That’s not true. That challenge will not arise. The choice of who will represent the party won’t be an issue.”
Regarding his continued involvement in politics, 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.
When asked if he’s tired of Nigerian politics, he responded, “Not at all. I am still actively involved in politics, as long as God permits.
“My age doesn’t prevent younger people from pursuing their ambitions. Everyone, regardless of age, is allowed to aspire to any position in society, politically or otherwise.”
Concerning his 2027 presidential ambition, Atiku said, “That would depend on my party’s decision. I can’t make any categorical statement on that. It’s up to the party to decide the way forward in the next election.”
ChatGPT
“It shouldn’t be interpreted that way. I don’t need to be eyeing elections to have meetings with political friends and associates. We are currently practicing democracy in this country, which we fought for with our blood.”
Last week, Obi had a private meeting with Atiku and some other PDP leaders in Abuja.
Obi also separately met with former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and former Senate President Bukola Saraki, sparking speculation about a possible coalition for the 2027 general elections.
Obi was a PDP member until 2022, when he left to pursue his presidential ambitions with the Labour Party.
He finished third behind Atiku in the February 23 presidential election, which was won by Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress.
Atiku blamed Obi’s departure from the PDP for his loss to Tinubu.
Analysts argued that Atiku’s 6,984,520 votes combined with Obi’s 6,101,533 votes could have secured a win against Tinubu, who received 8,794,726 votes.
For more political news, visit..Lagosstate.Com
