Atiku Abubakar Uncertain About 2027 Presidential Run

Former Vice President Sparks Speculation Amid Opposition Coalition Formation

By Ochogwu Sunday | March 26, 2025

Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has raised eyebrows with his recent statement indicating that he is unsure about contesting in the 2027 presidential election. The revelation has sparked discussions about Nigeria’s political future and the strength of the opposition ahead of the next general elections.

Atiku, a seasoned politician who has contested for the presidency six times, made these remarks in an exclusive yet-to-be-aired television interview on “Untold Stories” with journalist Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie.

His statement comes just days after he announced the formation of a coalition of opposition leaders with the aim of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This move has led many to speculate whether Atiku plans to step aside for a younger candidate or if he is simply waiting for the right moment to declare his ambitions.

Atiku: “I Don’t Know Yet If I’ll Run in 2027”

When asked directly if he intends to contest for the presidency in 2027, Atiku gave a cautious response:

“I don’t know because there has to be, first of all, a viable platform, more than any other time in the political history of this country, particularly since the return of democracy.”

His response suggests that while he has not ruled out the possibility of running, he is closely evaluating the political landscape before making a decision.

Having been involved in Nigerian politics for over three decades, Atiku has always been a formidable force in elections. However, after suffering multiple defeats, questions have emerged about whether he will make yet another bid or throw his support behind a younger, more vibrant candidate.

Nigeria Needs Strong Leadership, Says Atiku

Despite his uncertainty about running, Atiku made it clear that Nigeria is in urgent need of experienced and credible leadership, stating that the country requires a strong and competent leader more than ever before.

“I have not seen Nigeria in such dire need of experienced and credible leadership as it is today.”

His comments come against the backdrop of economic struggles, security challenges, and political instability, which have fueled calls for change in governance.

Atiku also reflected on the opposition merger of 2014, which successfully ousted the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and brought the APC into power. He hinted that a similar alliance could be the key to defeating the ruling party in 2027.

“We had a similar merger in 2014—about four of us, or was it three? We all ran for president, and one of us emerged. We all supported the winner, and he won.”

This statement suggests that Atiku may be considering the possibility of rallying key opposition figures behind a single candidate to challenge the APC’s dominance in 2027.

Possible Alliance with Peter Obi and El-Rufai?

Amid ongoing political realignments, there is increasing speculation that Atiku may shift his support to other opposition figures, rather than running himself.

Reports indicate that he could potentially support former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in a bid to form a formidable coalition against the APC.

Both Obi and El-Rufai have strong political followings and are seen as potential challengers to the ruling party. If Atiku chooses to align with them instead of running, it could reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.

While he has not officially confirmed this possibility, political analysts believe that a united opposition front could significantly increase the chances of defeating the APC and bringing change to Nigeria.

Read also: “Atiku Shuts Down Defection Rumours, Confirms Opposition Coalition to Oust APC in 2027”

What’s Next for Atiku and the Opposition?

As the 2027 elections draw closer, the Nigerian political landscape is heating up, with various players positioning themselves for the race.

✔️ Will Atiku run for president one last time, or will he support another candidate?
✔️ Can the opposition form a strong enough alliance to challenge the APC?
✔️ Will Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, or another candidate emerge as the leading opposition figure?

Atiku’s eventual decision could play a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s political future. With his vast experience and political influence, his actions in the coming months will be closely watched.

For now, Nigerians await further developments, as the battle for the 2027 presidency begins to take shape.