Donald Duke has criticised Atiku Abubakar’s continued presidential ambitions, urging him to step aside and allow a new generation of leaders to emerge.
Donald Duke has criticised Atiku Abubakar over his reported plan to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing the move as “ridiculous” and questioning his continued pursuit of power.
Speaking at a recent gathering, Duke, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), expressed disbelief that Atiku has continued to seek the presidency 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.
Duke added that there comes a point when leaders should step aside and allow others to emerge, urging Atiku to consider playing a different role in Nigeria’s political landscape. “There’s a time you look at it and say enough is enough. Let me be a kingmaker rather than the king,” he said, while also raising concerns about regional balance in leadership. He noted that after years of Northern leadership, equity should be considered in future arrangements. Similarly, Senator Victor Umeh has urged Atiku to reconsider his ambition and support younger politicians, echoing calls for a generational shift ahead of the 2027 elections.
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