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Oshiomhole Casts Doubt on Atiku Abubakar’s Leadership Credentials
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, the former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and current representative for Edo North, has publicly challenged the leadership capabilities of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Oshiomhole highlighted Atiku’s repeated inability to bring stability to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a key indicator of his unsuitability to govern Nigeria.
Atiku’s Recent Political Shift and Its Implications
This critique came shortly after Atiku officially announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling his ambition to run in the 2027 presidential elections under a new political banner. Atiku shared the news on X, posting a photo of himself holding his ADC membership card with the caption, “It’s official.”
Oshiomhole’s Perspective on Atiku’s Political Track Record
Oshiomhole questioned Atiku’s capacity to lead Nigeria by pointing to his failure to unify and strengthen the PDP during his tenure. He remarked, “If Atiku, as a former vice president under the PDP, could not stabilise the party, could not rebuild it, and failed to leverage his influence effectively, how can he claim to have the ability to fix Nigeria?”
Further, Oshiomhole revisited Atiku’s previous exit from the APC, attributing it to his unsuccessful bid for the party’s presidential nomination. “He was once part of the APC but left after losing the presidential ticket. He returned to the PDP, seemingly driven by electoral ambitions rather than party loyalty. Yet, despite his efforts, he was unable to strengthen the PDP,” Oshiomhole added.
Contextualizing Atiku’s Defection Amidst PDP Turmoil
Atiku’s departure from the PDP in July followed a period marked by intense internal conflicts within the party, which have undermined its cohesion and electoral prospects. His move to the ADC is seen by some analysts as an attempt to reposition himself ahead of the 2027 elections, seeking a fresh platform after years of political turbulence.
Looking Ahead: The 2027 Elections and Nigeria’s Political Landscape
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, the political dynamics continue to evolve rapidly. Atiku’s switch to the ADC introduces new variables into the opposition landscape, while Oshiomhole’s criticisms underscore ongoing debates about leadership effectiveness and party loyalty. According to recent polls, voter sentiment remains divided, with many Nigerians expressing skepticism about traditional political figures and their promises for national reform.
