The Presidency has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to abandon plans to contest the 2027 presidential election, insisting that the North-South power rotation principle must be respected.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga made the remarks via his verified X account, describing Atiku’s renewed ambition as self-serving and contrary to Nigeria’s long-standing zoning arrangement.
He argued that the informal power-sharing system, observed since 1999, has helped maintain political stability, noting that after the eight-year tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, it is fair for the South to complete its turn under President Bola Tinubu.
Onanuga also referenced Atiku’s past electoral defeat in 2023, saying his decision to contest despite zoning expectations contributed to divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party and weakened his political chances.
