Atiku's Withdrawal Could Collapse Opposition Momentum

Demola Olarewaju, a senior political assistant to Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stated that the opposition's momentum could collapse if Atiku steps down from the 2027 presidential race. He argued that Atiku is crucial for mounting a serious challenge against President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Olarewaju noted that the dynamics of an election involving an incumbent president differ significantly from those of a transition election. He described Atiku as a "bridge" for building a stronger opposition bloc beyond 2027, asserting that he is the only candidate capable of competing with Tinubu both locally and internationally.

Olarewaju also attributed the APC's setbacks in the 2023 election to former President Muhammadu Buhari's limited involvement in Tinubu's campaign. His comments coincided with renewed efforts by opposition groups, including the G100 initiative, to unite against the APC ahead of the 2027 elections, emphasizing the need for a strong opposition.