By Milcah Tanimu
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has emphasized that his primary focus remains on tackling the severe hunger and hardship facing Nigerians, rather than entertaining speculations about the 2027 presidential election.
This statement comes in response to Chief Bode George, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, who recently advised Atiku to step back from pursuing a 2027 presidential bid, suggesting that he should follow the example of U.S. President Joe Biden, who chose to make way for a younger candidate in the 2024 elections.
In a statement released by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku asserted that his concerns are centered on the pressing issues of the present and immediate future. “We cannot afford to put the cart before the horse,” Atiku noted, emphasizing that his focus is on addressing the challenges of 2024, 2025, and beyond, rather than planning for the 2027 election.
Atiku highlighted the difficult situation many Nigerians are currently facing, attributing their hardships to what he described as the “failed” policies of the current administration. He stressed that it would be inappropriate to discuss the 2027 election when the 2023 mandate has yet to yield any significant benefits, leaving Nigerians in a worse condition across all areas of life.
He also directed a message to Chief Bode George, suggesting he should advise President Tinubu to reconsider his policies, which Atiku believes have intensified poverty and societal divisions. “Bode George should focus on advising Tinubu to reevaluate some of his misguided policies rather than prioritizing the politics of 2027,” Atiku added.
