‘Atiku, it’s enough!’ – Another ADC chieftain lambasts ex VP over 2027 presidential bid

Donald Duke, a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has publicly condemned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s decision to pursue a sixth attempt at the presidency in 2027, labeling the move “ridiculous” and questioning his continued aspirations for power.

Duke, who previously served as Governor of Cross River State and was the 2019 presidential candidate for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), expressed disbelief at Atiku’s determination to continue vying for the presidency.

Speaking at a recent gathering, Duke questioned why Atiku has persisted in seeking the highest office in the land for nearly three decades.

“Since 1992, Atiku has been running for president. He contested against MKO Abiola, then in 2003 against Obasanjo, which led to a major fallout between them. In 2007, he contested, again in 2011 against Jonathan, and in 2019, and 2023. Haba! Na only you dey?” Duke said, incredulously.

The ADC chieftain argued that there comes a time in every leader’s journey when they should step back and allow others a chance to lead. “There’s a time you look at it and say enough is enough. Let me be a kingmaker rather than the king,” Duke added.

He pointed out the repeated Northern leadership in Nigeria, highlighting the concerns about the country’s political balance. “How do you justify to our children that after eight years of Northern leadership, we go back to another eight years of Northern leadership?” he questioned, stating that while he is not an advocate for zoning, equity should play a role in leadership decisions.

Duke’s remarks came in the wake of similar comments by Senator Victor Umeh, an ADC chieftain who represents Anambra Central.

Umeh recently urged Atiku to reconsider his 2027 presidential bid and instead support younger politicians vying for leadership. Umeh’s call echoed Duke’s sentiment, suggesting that Nigeria needs fresh leadership and a generational shift in politics.

Umeh, appearing on ARISE Television’s Prime Time show, stated that he had hoped Atiku would step aside for younger Nigerians to rise and lead. “I was thinking he would be at the point where he would be considering leaving the stage for younger people, but he said he is contesting,” Umeh remarked.