By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has sparked a wave of criticism, particularly from northern Nigeria, after declaring during a live television interview that he commands more political popularity in the region than three of its prominent leaders: Rabiu Kwankwaso, Nasir El-Rufai, and Aminu Tambuwal.
The comment, made Wednesday night on Arise TV, came as the anchor suggested that the 2027 presidential election might not follow the familiar pattern where Atiku, despite not winning, still secures a massive bloc of northern votes—unlike the era of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Not like under Buhari when you have this massive votes constantly going to him,” the anchor noted.
In a sharp retort, Atiku asked: “Ok, can you tell me who among the current northern leaders has more votes than I have?”
He then declared: “You are talking about northern leaders like Kwankwaso, Tambuwal, El-Rufai, and other emerging political figures—none of them has gotten that northern bloc votes as much as I have gotten.”
The statement has since ignited a firestorm on social media, especially among supporters of former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. Even some of Atiku’s own backers admitted the remark was unnecessary, though they argued it was truthful.
Mixed Reactions Online
Nigerians have taken to social media to express their views:
-Hammed Babatunde wrote: “He is already dividing the party with selfish interest. Atiku’s ambition has always beclouded him. Any party that fails to give him the ticket will be abandoned. Thank God he said he will reach political menopause in 2027.”
-Adewale Ogunmilade pleaded: “Ancestor, please help Nigeria by mentoring than leading. Abeg.”
-Musa Tahiru predicted: “Another fight looming. Hope they will not point fingers at anyone this time.”
Analyst Warns Against Provocative Remarks
Political analyst Sule Ya’u Tariwa went further, publishing an open letter to the former vice president. Extracts read:
“Dear Alh. Atiku Abubakar, I watched your latest interview with Arise TV and did not find it convincing. Some of your remarks, particularly about Tambuwal, Kwankwaso and El-Rufai, were abstruse. You must refrain from making unnecessary comments in a live interview that may be perceived as politically provocative by your party members.”
Tariwa advised the PDP chieftain to focus on confronting President Bola Tinubu’s political strategies collectively, rather than engaging in comparisons of superiority among northern leaders.
