Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said he would step aside for Peter Obi if Obi secures the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Wednesday evening, Atiku was asked directly whether he would withdraw from the race if Obi emerged as the ADC’s flagbearer. He confirmed that he would.
“Yes, I will step aside for any winner,” Atiku stated, adding, “Of course, if he is a contender, why not?”
He dismissed concerns that stepping aside for Obi could be difficult, noting that the two were former running mates. “What is difficult there? It is democracy. It is either you go through consensus or you go through election. You emerge through consensus or emerge through the electoral process.”
Atiku and Obi are regarded as the frontrunners for the ADC’s presidential ticket, alongside other potential contenders such as Rabiu Kwankwaso and Rotimi Amaechi.
The ADC has yet to announce the date for its presidential primary, but the contest is expected to draw significant attention as opposition parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 election. Atiku’s willingness to concede to Obi, if necessary, signals a potential alignment within opposition ranks aimed at presenting a united front against the ruling party.
