Why Nigerians may prefer Atiku to Tinubu, Obi in 2027

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, now of the African Democratic Congress, enters the 2027 presidential race with a mix of political pedigree and persistent controversies as he prepares to challenge President Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi, according to a report by Peoples Gazette.

​On the positive side, Abubakar is credited with halting former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third-term agenda and maintaining a friendly, pro-press stance. He founded the American University of Nigeria, which provides education and scholarships to freed Chibok girls. Additionally, he took pride in headhunting key talent during his time in government, including Nasir el-Rufai, Nuhu Ribadu, and Chukwuma Soludo.

​However, his political journey is shadowed by notable setbacks and frequent party switching across the PDP, AC, APC, and ADC. A 2010 U.S. Senate report linked him to transferring over $40 million in “suspect funds” and foreign bribery scandals. Furthermore, a leaked recording exposed his involvement in a scheme exploiting federal contracts, while his tenure as chair of the National Council on Privatisation faced criticism for favoring political allies. His refusal to yield to power-rotation agreements also fragmented his former party, adding to voters’ scrutiny ahead of 2027.