Hakeem Baba-Ahmed urges Atiku Abubakar to abandon 2027 bid, saying it would signal a new political culture and strengthen opposition democracy
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, has urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to step aside from the 2027 presidential race.
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Speaking on Arise News’ The Morning Show on Thursday, Baba-Ahmed argued that Atiku’s withdrawal would demonstrate a commitment to fresh leadership and break the cycle of recycled politicians.
Atiku’s Party Advantage
While urging Atiku to reconsider, Baba-Ahmed acknowledged that he remains the most qualified candidate within the Allied Democratic Congress (ADC).
He highlighted Atiku’s experience, national reach, party structures, and loyal support base as key advantages.
“Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has the experience, the spread, better structures, and loyal people. The ADC ticket will be very difficult for anyone else to claim,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed also criticised attempts to reserve the party ticket for a specific individual, calling it a violation of democratic principles.
A Call for Political Innovation
He stressed that Atiku stepping aside would be a decisive move entirely within his control and could reshape opposition politics in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general election.
“The most important commitment Atiku can make after years of labour for democracy is to decide not to run. Nigerians need to see something dramatically outside the box,” Baba-Ahmed said.
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His remarks contribute to the ongoing debate on the future direction of Nigeria’s opposition and the need for fresh political leadership as the 2027 elections approach.
