Atiku’s Allies React As Single-Term Presidency Talks Heat Up Ahead Of 2027

Allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said on Monday that efforts by a wider opposition coalition to present a united presidential candidate against President Bola Tinubu remain on course, despite recent political shifts.

They also downplayed suggestions that Obi and Kwankwaso’s exit from the ADC would weaken the opposition’s chances in the 2027 election.

Atiku, who left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2025 before joining the ADC as part of coalition-building efforts, had earlier been joined in the party by both Obi and Kwankwaso after the 2023 elections. However, the duo have now moved to the NDC following internal disputes and political realignments within the ADC.

Speaking to Punch on condition of anonymity, an Atiku associate said it was premature to discuss whether the former vice president would agree to a single-term presidency if he becomes the coalition’s candidate.

Another source within his camp dismissed the debate entirely, describing it as a distraction from the broader goal of strengthening the opposition structure.

According to the source, Atiku’s current priority is building a strong and stable political platform rather than focusing on personal political arrangements.

“ADC Train Still Moving”

The Atiku ally described the ADC as an ongoing political “train,” noting that the departure of some figures does not end the coalition project.

He said political movement within the platform is expected, and new members will continue to join as others leave, with the ultimate focus being the 2027 elections.

He insisted that the coalition plan to challenge the ruling party remains active and unchanged, stressing that recent defections have not altered its direction.