As Nigeria’s opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), prepare for the 2027 general elections, concerns have been raised over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s effectiveness as opposition leader.
Many within the PDP question whether Atiku’s continued presidential ambitions will hinder his ability to unify the party and lead a united opposition.
Several PDP insiders have expressed concern that Atiku’s ambition to secure the presidency may be undermining his role as the opposition party’s representative.
Insiders say Atiku is yet to assume the role of a unifying leader focused on the party’s broader interests. Rather, some feel that his efforts remain focused on personal aspirations, which has plunged the PDP into a state of perpetual infighting.
Two PDP party leaders, who requested anonymity, revealed that Atiku has not contributed financially to the party in recent times, raising concerns about his efforts to strengthen the PDP.
One of them said, “When was the last time Atiku contributed to this party?” Although Atiku has not contributed financially to the party for a long time, he still wants to become president on the party’s platform.
“He thinks he’ll always get tickets no matter when he comes, but parties have gotten smarter now.”
Another key PDP official echoed this sentiment, saying Atiku’s personal ambitions are likely to cloud his judgment and make it difficult for him to put the party’s priorities above his own. He emphasized that there is.
“Mr Atiku cannot play the role of opposition leader as his presidential ambition is paramount. His ambition will cloud his judgment in making decisions within the party.
“If Mr. Atiku puts aside his ambitions today and calls on everyone to discuss the interests of the party and the way forward, most of the crises within the party will end.
“His ambition and interest in all electoral circles is one of the reasons why some important members of the party are unable to win positions,” a key source said.
In an interview with INDEPENDENT in Abuja, PDP Youth Party Vice-President Timothy Osadore highlighted Atiku’s potential, saying that although Atiku is recognized as a leader, he has no desire to unite the opposition or strengthen the PDP. He pointed out that not enough progress had been made to achieve this goal.
Osadore noted that Atiku has the necessary influence and resources to effectively counter the ruling party, but has not yet done enough to unify the opposition and establish the networks necessary for this goal. did.
“It is no secret that the name Atiku Abubakar is a well-known name in this country, Nigeria.
“This guy has literally grown into a brand that the world admires and values.
“Apart from being a politician, he is the most successful businessman. But his life is defined by his politics.
“Some of the major reforms and achievements from 1999 to 2007 were the product of his skillful contributions and a testament to his administrative ability.
“As with all things, political times and trends change, and people are allowed to grow older and overcome some traits, for better or for worse.
“The complexities that today’s realities are creating in our political space far exceed what could have been endured 10 to 15 years ago.
“Mr. Atiku Abubakar is a born leader, for reasons best known to him, who have energized the opposition, strengthened the party, and created a powerful empire that controls the lives and affairs of Nigerians. They haven’t been up front enough to build networks that can take down organizations like they do today.
“Yes, we have seen him issue several press releases and visit key opposition leaders.
“There are still many vacant Opposition leadership positions. He can step up and not only fill them but use them for the relief and benefit of Nigerians who want a better country.
“He has the influence and the resources to do that. Let him leverage himself to provide leadership. Nigerians need a face and a voice to rally around, but not necessarily a presidential aspirant. It doesn’t have to be.
“It is about saving Nigeria, rebranding, rebuilding, rescuing Nigeria and making Nigeria a country that we can all be proud of,” Osadore said.
