2027 Presidency: Bwala Reveals Why Atiku Is Betting Big On Fuel Subsidy

President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has said the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, is taking a political gamble because the 2027 election could be his final opportunity to contest for the presidency.

Bwala made the comment in a post on his X account while reacting to Atiku’s promise to restore fuel subsidy if elected president.

According to the presidential aide, Atiku’s proposal was aimed at appealing to voters through a populist campaign strategy.

Bwala, however, argued that a politician seeking to run a populist campaign must first have strong popularity among the electorate.

He wrote:

“Since 2027 is likely to be his last chance to seek the office of the president, he decided to gamble on the populist rhetoric of ‘I will bring back the fuel subsidy.’ He presumed that, after all, there is nothing to lose.

“The only problem is that, to run a populist campaign, you must first ensure that you are popular with the people.”

Meanwhile, Atiku has dismissed concerns over his age and its potential impact on his ability to lead the country if elected in 2027.

The former vice president described the recurring concerns about his age as unfortunate and challenged those questioning his fitness to consider whether he appeared to be approaching 80.

Atiku made the remarks in an interview with BBC Hausa published on Friday.

He was responding to a question on whether his age could affect his ability to provide effective leadership throughout a four-year presidential term if elected.

The interviewer noted that Atiku would be “almost or nearly 80 years old” by the time Nigerians vote in 2027 and asked what he would say to those who believe he is too old to become president.

In his response, Atiku referenced President Bola Tinubu’s age before questioning the basis of the concern.

“You went and voted for someone who is 80, I mean 90 years old. How old is President Bola, 90?” he asked.

After the interviewer corrected him that Tinubu was not yet 80, Atiku replied:

“Do I look to you like someone who has reached 80 years of age?”

The exchange comes as Atiku steps up preparations for the 2027 presidential election and continues efforts to bring opposition politicians together under a coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).