Atiku Urges Support for Tinubu in 2027, Says Bwala

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to back President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. Bwala made the comment during an interview on Symfoni TV, where he examined Atiku’s current political strength and future prospects.

He noted that Atiku has historically relied on a nationwide support base rather than a concentrated regional one. “Historically, Atiku has never commanded more votes from the Northwest. His votes are usually spread across the nation because of his national outlook,” Bwala said.

Bwala added that Atiku’s influence in the North may be weaker than many believe, citing recent electoral results. “In 2023, he even lost some states in the Northeast. So we are speaking to facts and figures, not assumptions,” he stated.

He also highlighted the impact of other political actors. “There is the Kwankwaso factor who has now aligned with Peter Obi, and his influence has affected Atiku. So when you ask about Atiku’s electoral value now, you have to consider these realities,” Bwala added.

Questioning Atiku’s political structure, Bwala asked who his key allies are at the state level. “I ask you, who are Atiku’s governors? What structure does he have? He doesn’t really have that structure,” he said.

Reflecting on the 2023 presidential election, Bwala said it was Atiku’s best chance to become president, noting that the circumstances at the time were favorable. “2023 was the biggest opportunity Atiku had in his political life,” he said.

Bwala explained that certain narratives during the election period—religious and regional sentiments—helped Atiku gain support. “There was this belief that power would remain in the North, and that influenced how people voted. Religious leaders and political actors also played a role in shaping opinions,” he said.

He observed that many of the key supporters who backed Atiku in 2023 are no longer aligned with him, weakening his position. “The people who were strong supporters then are no longer with him now. That has weakened his position,” he added.

Bwala expressed concern that Atiku could underperform if he contests again in 2027. “My fear is that he might even perform below expectations, possibly behind other candidates. What would that mean for his legacy?” he said.

He concluded by advising Atiku to consider supporting President Tinubu instead of running again. “I want to urge him to come and sit with his friend (Tinubu), and support him. He has four years to complete his term, and after that, you can pursue your interests not you (Atiku) but whoever you think should be part of the process,” Bwala said.