Veteran journalist ranks former VP as top contender
Veteran journalist and former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu has declared that Atiku Abubakar remains the candidate with the best chance of becoming Nigeria’s President in 2027.
Momodu, who has been a vocal commentator on the country’s political landscape, suggested that the former Vice President’s extensive national reach and experience give him an edge over other potential aspirants. This endorsement comes as political parties and heavyweights begin early maneuvers ahead of the next general election cycle.
The publisher of Ovation International emphasized that despite previous electoral setbacks, Atiku’s political machinery remains one of the most formidable in the country. He argued that the current economic challenges and political realignments could favor a candidate with a proven track record of national service. Momodu believes that the quest for a “bridge-builder” will likely lead back to the Adamawa-born politician.
While some critics argue that the political stage needs younger faces, Momodu countered that competence and national acceptance should take precedence over age. He noted that the intricacies of Nigerian politics require a leader who can navigate complex ethnic and religious lines effectively. According to him, the “Atiku factor” is a reality that cannot be ignored by any serious political observer in the coming years.
Political realignment within the opposition camp
The endorsement by Dele Momodu highlights the ongoing internal discussions within the opposition regarding the best strategy to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. This period has seen high-profile exits and entries into various political camps, including Momodu’s own recent move to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Despite these shifts, his support for Atiku’s presidential potential remains a significant talking point in the media.
Speculation regarding a “mega-party” or a grand coalition of opposition forces has continued to gain traction in Abuja. Momodu suggested that for the opposition to be successful, they must rally behind a candidate who possesses “pan-Nigerian” appeal. He argued that Atiku Abubakar has consistently demonstrated the ability to secure votes across the six geopolitical zones, a feat that is difficult for many regional politicians.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has recently faced internal turbulence, leading to the departure of several key figures who are seeking new platforms to realize their ambitions. However, Momodu’s assertion suggests that Atiku remains the “sun” around which many opposition planets still revolve. The coming months are expected to reveal whether this support translates into a formal coalition or another run under a different banner.
Economic climate and its impact on 2027 prospects
A major theme in Momodu’s analysis is the impact of the current economic environment on the electorate’s preferences for the next election. He pointed out that the rising cost of living and the devaluation of the Naira have created a sense of “yearning for change” among many Nigerians. In his view, voters will be looking for a leader who can provide immediate economic stability and industrial growth.
Momodu argued that Atiku’s background as a successful businessman and his time as head of the National Economic Council make him a compelling choice for an economically distressed nation. He believes that the “Renewed Hope” agenda will be strictly measured by its results at the pump and in the market. If the economic situation does not improve significantly, the opposition’s argument for a “tested hand” like Atiku may gain more ground.
The veteran journalist also highlighted the importance of digital transformation and youth engagement in the next election. He noted that while Atiku is a veteran, his team has consistently utilized modern communication tools to reach the younger demographic. The challenge for 2027, according to Momodu, will be bridging the gap between traditional political structures and the aspirations of the “Gen Z” and Millennial voters.
Challenges and the road ahead for Atiku Abubakar
Despite the optimistic outlook from Dele Momodu, Atiku Abubakar faces significant hurdles on the road to 2027. Chief among these is the internal friction within the PDP and the emergence of other strong contenders from the South-South and South-East regions. The “power shift” debate continues to be a sensitive issue, with many arguing that the presidency should remain in the South or move to a specific sub-region.
Furthermore, the APC administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is unlikely to yield ground easily. The ruling party has already begun consolidating its grassroots support and implementing infrastructure projects aimed at securing voter loyalty. Momodu acknowledged that the opposition must be more united and strategic than ever before if they hope to displace the incumbency.
The veteran journalist concluded that the “beauty of democracy” lies in the power of the people to decide. He urged political leaders to focus on issues that affect the common man rather than engaging in “frivolous” political bickering. For Momodu, the focus should be on who can best rescue the country from its current doldrums, and in his estimation, Atiku Abubakar stands tall in that regard.
