Donald Duke criticises Atiku 2027 presidential bid, calling it “ridiculous” and urging a generational shift in Nigerian politics
Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke has strongly criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his decision to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing the move as “ridiculous” and questioning his long-standing pursuit of the presidency.
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Donald Duke Blasts Atiku’s 2027 Presidential Ambition remarks were made during a public gathering, where the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain expressed surprise at Atiku’s repeated attempts to clinch Nigeria’s highest office over several decades.
Duke, who also ran for president in 2019 under the Social Democratic Party, argued that leadership should be rotational and that political actors should know when to step aside in favour of younger aspirants.
He further suggested that Atiku’s continued ambition risked limiting generational progress in Nigerian politics, stressing the importance of allowing new leaders to emerge.
His comments echo similar sentiments previously expressed by Senator Victor Umeh, who also urged Atiku to reconsider his 2027 presidential ambition and support younger candidates instead.
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The growing calls from political figures highlight ongoing debates within opposition circles about succession, leadership renewal and the future direction of Nigeria’s political landscape.



