•Yunusa Tanko argues that the former VP’s priority should be an opposition victory over personal ambition.
Yunusa Tanko Yakasai, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, has suggested that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar could play a kingmaker role by supporting and “anointing” Peter Obi as the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections.
Yakasai made these remarks during an appearance on TVC’s *Politics On Sunday*, where he addressed the ongoing debate regarding the ADC’s 2027 ticket and the potential realignment of key opposition figures.
When asked if a potential bid by Atiku might block Obi from securing the ADC ticket, Yakasai dismissed the notion, describing the former Vice President as a statesman and a “father” to the movement.
“Atiku Abubakar is a leader; he is a father. He will not even join in that shenanigan,” Yakasai stated.
While acknowledging that Atiku possesses the fundamental right to contest the presidency again, Yakasai argued that the former Vice President might prioritize a strategic victory for the opposition over personal ambition.
“He has the right [to contest], but he also has the right to anoint somebody. He can; it is within his fundamental human rights as a father who wants to win,” he said. “Winning does not mean I have to be the one. Winning can be me taking you and saying, ‘Go and win for us; I know you are capable.’ It is possible.”
These comments arrive at a time of intensifying discussions within opposition circles about forming a formidable coalition. Supporters of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, have been increasingly vocal in calling for party leaders to present him as the consensus face for 2027.
However, the ADC leadership has urged caution. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, warned members and supporters of various presidential hopefuls against rhetoric that could fracture the party.
Speaking during a live audio conversation on X (formerly Twitter), Abdullahi urged stakeholders to avoid divisive narratives as the party prepares for its primary elections scheduled for June.
