2027 Won’t Be Business As Usual, Says Atiku
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a strong political statement, declaring that the 2027 general elections in Nigeria will not follow the conventional pattern of politics, stressing that “it won’t be business as usual.”
His remarks have stirred political conversation across the country, especially within the opposition ranks and among civil society groups advocating for electoral reforms.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, made this assertion during a strategic political meeting held in Abuja on Monday.
He warned that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has failed to deliver good governance, which, according to him, has further deepened public dissatisfaction and increased the hunger for credible leadership among Nigerians.
“Nigerians are suffering. The level of poverty, insecurity, and hopelessness in the land is alarming. People can no longer afford the basics of life, and the government appears indifferent to their plight. In 2027, it won’t be business as usual. The people are watching, and they are ready,” Atiku said.
The former vice president also hinted at plans for a broad-based political coalition, stressing the need for the opposition to unite and work towards a common goal of rescuing Nigeria.
He noted that efforts are already ongoing behind the scenes to engage progressive-minded political actors, civil society groups, and young people.
“We must begin early. We must build bridges and set aside personal ambitions for the greater good. The opposition must speak with one voice. The future of this country is at stake, and history will not forgive us if we fail again,” he added.
Atiku’s remarks come amid increasing criticism of the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy, the floating of the naira, and the rising cost of living. Many Nigerians have lamented that these policies, though touted as necessary reforms, have led to untold hardship without immediate safety nets for the masses.
Political analysts have interpreted Atiku’s statement as an early declaration of intent to remain relevant in the 2027 political contest, either directly or through the role of a kingmaker. Some also believe it is a rallying cry to revive the PDP and form new strategic alliances ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Meanwhile, supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have dismissed Atiku’s comments as mere political rhetoric. In a brief reaction, an APC chieftain who spoke anonymously said, “Atiku has contested the presidency six times and failed. 2027 won’t be different. Nigerians know who is working and who is only talking.”
However, public response to Atiku’s remarks has been mixed. While many citizens on social media praised his boldness in addressing national issues, others questioned whether he represents the change he advocates, pointing to his long involvement in Nigeria’s political establishment.
As political activities begin to gather pace, Atiku’s statement has set the tone for what could be an intense lead-up to the 2027 general elections, with citizens increasingly demanding accountability, unity, and vision from their leaders.
