Aliyu Usman, a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, has described former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as a formidable political figure, undiminished by shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a Trust TV interview 21:40, Usman lauded Atiku’s vast experience and resilience, emphasizing his ability to challenge formidable opponents.
Usman highlighted Atiku’s near-success in securing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential ticket against then-President Goodluck Jonathan in 2011 as evidence of his enduring influence and determination.
He cautioned that dismissing Atiku amid the current coalition dynamics, including the opposition’s adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), would be a miscalculation.
According to him, “Mark my word, no matter how they play this game, Atiku Abubakar is on top of them. You know he’s our father, and we come from the same place; we respect him so much. I know him very well when it comes to the issue of clinching a ticket. In 2011, when President Jonathan was in power, it took a lot for Jonathan to scale when Atiku wanted to remove the ticket from him.”
Atiku’s strategic prowess, Usman argued, positions him as a key player despite the evolving political landscape. His comments underscore Atiku’s reputation as a seasoned politician capable of navigating complex political battles, as demonstrated in past intra-party contests.
As Nigeria approaches 2027, Usman’s remarks suggest that Atiku’s influence within the opposition remains significant, potentially shaping the coalition’s strategy against the ruling APC.
