Pressure mounted on Atiku Abubakar’s reported 2027 presidential ambition on Thursday, as the Presidency and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike criticised the move and the ruling All Progressives Congress ruled out automatic tickets, intensifying tensions over zoning and candidate selection.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, speaking at the State House in Abuja, said he would not be deterred by critics or political pressure. Addressing members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Tinubu said opposition would not derail his administration’s plans to reform the economy and reposition the country.
“They want to scare me off? That is a lie … if I have to go through it again, I will,” he said.
Tinubu said his government remains focused on tackling poverty, expanding opportunities and strengthening democratic values. He urged respect for the rule of law and judicial authority, warning against disobedience to court orders.
“There is no other path to national greatness than building one country with a common vision,” he said, adding that economic reforms would require patience but would yield results.
Earlier, Imo State Gov. Hope Uzodinma said the Renewed Hope Ambassadors had been reinvigorated by Tinubu’s endorsement, urging members to promote government policies at the grassroots. APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda pledged party support, while Kaduna State Gov. Uba Sani called for improved communication of government achievements.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said Atiku’s reported ambition was “self-serving” and undermined Nigeria’s informal North-South power rotation. He argued that the arrangement favors the South after former President Muhammadu Buhari’s two terms.
Wike also dismissed Atiku’s chances, describing him as a “serial opposition figure” and expressing confidence the APC would retain power. He questioned the strength of the African Democratic Congress and its ability to compete nationally.
In response, Atiku’s aide, Phrank Shaibu accused the Presidency of attempting to stifle opposition, insisting zoning is a political convention and that Nigerians would ultimately decide the 2027 election.
