By OBSERVERS TIMES
Former National Secretary of the Congress for Progressive Change, Buba Galadima, has issued a stark warning to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against contesting the 2027 presidential election, alleging that former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is merely a “placeholder” for Atiku within the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
In an exclusive interview with Daily Trust, Galadima also offered a critical assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, while addressing the internal strife within his own party, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
Tinubu’s Administration Under Scrutiny
“I don’t want to give an opinion on an administration until it has completed half of its term,” Galadima stated, while acknowledging the “hardships” facing Nigerians. He expressed concern over the fluctuating commodity prices, hinting at potential “secret importation by friends of the government.”
NNPP: Internal Strife and APC Allegations
Galadima vehemently denied internal issues within the NNPP, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating “commotion.” He alleged that the APC is “trying to buy some of our members,” citing instances of projects being offered to NNPP senators. He emphasized the continued popularity of NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, stating, “Nobody left our party. We expelled them.”
El-Rufai and the SDP: A ‘Failed’ Coalition?
Galadima dismissed El-Rufai’s coalition efforts through the SDP, asserting that he “cannot lead an opposition.” “He is used to going into an established house and taking it over, but now that he’s trying to build from scratch, he will see how difficult politics can be,” Galadima said. He further alleged, “El-Rufai is merely a placeholder for someone else who is expected to take over the party,” suggesting Atiku’s involvement.
PDP: ‘Irredeemable’ and Divided
The former CPC secretary painted a grim picture of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), labeling it “destroyed completely” and “irredeemable.” He cited internal divisions, including factions led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, governors, and Atiku. “That is why Atiku is afraid of being stranded,” he said.
Atiku’s 2027 Ambitions Questioned
Galadima advised Atiku against contesting in 2027, stating, “Atiku should not contest in the 2027 election, this is my personal view.” He emphasized the need for Atiku to “support other people” and allow “his son for progress, if he is qualified.”
Advice for President Tinubu
In his advice to President Tinubu, Galadima warned against “destroying the opposition.” He urged the president to “allow people to vent their anger” and avoid relying solely on “security agencies feeding him lies.”
