APC Chieftain Joe Igbokwe Says Atiku Abubakar’s 2027 Presidential Ambition is Unlikely, Advises Waiting Until 2031
Joe Igbokwe, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has firmly stated that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s bid for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027 is highly unlikely to succeed. In a post shared on his Facebook page, Igbokwe argued that Atiku’s ambitions were unrealistic, urging the Adamawa-born politician to consider a presidential run only in 2031.
Igbokwe expressed doubt that Atiku’s age and political circumstances would favor him in the upcoming 2027 elections. He noted that the former vice president, despite his long-standing political career, would face significant challenges in securing the presidency due to a variety of factors, including his advancing age and the shifting political dynamics in the country.
In his post, Igbokwe wrote: “Former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is still struggling and dreaming to be president of Nigeria in 2027. It cannot fly, all things considered. He should wait till 2031. Even at that, age is not on his side.”
Igbokwe’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among some political figures who believe that the 2027 election may not be favorable for the opposition, especially considering the current political climate and the dominance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Igbokwe also pointed out that Atiku’s advanced age could work against him, making it harder for him to mount a successful challenge in 2027.
These remarks come in the wake of similar statements from key political figures. Recently, George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, suggested that no northern candidate should challenge President Tinubu in the 2027 elections, emphasizing the importance of regional unity and the need for support for Tinubu’s presidency. This further fuels the argument that Atiku, a stalwart of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), may face considerable resistance within the northern political bloc.
Igbokwe’s assessment adds to the growing narrative within APC circles that the 2027 election will likely be focused on consolidating the gains of the Tinubu administration rather than a fierce contest for power. The APC chieftain’s recommendation that Atiku should wait until 2031 echoes the sentiments of many within the party who believe that the time is not ripe for a northern opposition candidate to disrupt the APC’s hold on power.
As the 2027 election cycle approaches, the debate over Atiku’s political future and his ability to mount another presidential challenge will continue to evolve, especially in light of his past three unsuccessful bids for the presidency.
