Ibrahim Abdulkarim, a close political associate of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, has urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the upcoming African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary, arguing that stepping aside would protect his legacy and pave the way for a new political era in Nigeria. Speaking on Trust TV on Friday, Abdulkarim emphasized that Atiku, who will turn 80 next year, should consider a dignified exit from the race, especially given the challenges of age and the shifting political landscape. He stated that Atiku’s long and influential career, spanning from 1992 to the present, deserves respect, and continuing to contest may not yield victory, making a graceful withdrawal the best option.
Abdulkarim stressed that Atiku’s decision to step down would not be a defeat but a strategic move to maintain his dignity and reputation among younger Nigerians. “We don’t want to defeat him,” he said. “Considering his work from 1992 till this day, we know he is not going to win, so we are giving him a soft landing to withdraw from the ADC presidential primary so he can look good in the eyes of young Nigerians.” He added that such a move would ensure Atiku’s name is remembered positively by future generations, including his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. “Timing is everything in politics, and this is the time of the South,” Abdulkarim noted, highlighting regional dynamics and the growing influence of southern political figures.
The political analyst further advocated for a joint presidential ticket between Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso within the ADC. He pointed to the strength of their grassroots movements—the Obidient movement and the Kwankwassiyya movement—as key assets for mobilizing support across the country. “We have very strong movements,” Abdulkarim said. “Those around him are not telling him what they are supposed to be telling him.” He believes that an Obi–Kwankwaso alliance would present a formidable challenge in the next general election, particularly among young voters who are increasingly disillusioned with traditional political structures.
Abdulkarim’s comments come amid growing speculation about the ADC’s internal dynamics and the party’s strategy for the 2027 presidential election. His call for Atiku to step aside reflects a broader push within certain political circles for generational change and renewed energy in Nigeria’s political landscape. The ADC, which has been positioning itself as a unifying force for opposition parties, is now at a crossroads, with leadership decisions expected to shape its electoral prospects. As the party prepares for its primary, the debate over Atiku’s role and the future direction of the ADC will likely intensify, with implications for the broader political contest in Nigeria. The coming weeks will reveal whether Atiku will heed the call for a dignified exit or continue to pursue the presidency, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in the party’s evolution.
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