Atiku remains uncertain about 2027; claims to have encouraged Peter Obi’s candidacy
Segun Sowunmi, former spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar, disclosed that he had discussed the possibility of Atiku running in the 2027 presidential election. However, Sowunmi, who had previously shown interest in running for governor of Ogun State, noted that Atiku has not yet given a clear response to the matter.
Speaking on Monday in Abuja at the launch of the National Opposition Movement Coalition, a new initiative designed to strengthen opposition politics and promote credible elections ahead of 2027, Sowunmi highlighted that the focus of the presidential race shouldn’t solely be on Atiku. Instead, he emphasized the need for a candidate with a well-defined vision for Nigeria’s future.
“Who could have predicted that Tinubu, given his background, would end up in the villa today? This proves that leadership is about more than just one person,” Sowunmi remarked.
Sowunmi revealed that while he had asked Atiku twice about his plans for 2027, the former PDP presidential candidate had yet to commit to a decision. He stated he would inquire once more, but if there was still no answer, he would consider the matter closed.
Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Sowunmi shared how he personally encouraged former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi to run for president under the PDP. “I traveled throughout the Southeast, meeting with PDP members, including Peter Obi, urging him to buy the nomination form and test the waters with the Nigerian people,” he explained. Although Obi ultimately joined the Labour Party without informing him, Sowunmi praised Obi for raising the Southeast’s concerns on a national level. Still, he emphasized that leadership must be results-oriented and not just about rhetoric.
Sowunmi further explained that the National Opposition Movement Coalition was created in response to growing concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the integrity of its electoral system. He criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for failing to ensure election credibility, despite improvements in its operational procedures. Sowunmi also voiced worries about the judiciary’s diminishing credibility, stressing its critical role in safeguarding democratic processes and checking governmental excesses.
