[Video] 2027 Election: Atiku's Team Claims Northern Region Will Decide Presidency

Demola Olarewaju, senior political assistant to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, asserts that the North will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the 2027 presidential election, citing the region's historical tendency to operate as a cohesive political bloc.

n

This observation was made during an interview on Vanguard Politics Hub, where Olarewaju discussed the regional dynamics that will shape the next general election, highlighting the North's unified stance in contrast to the South's diverse ethnic and regional interests.

n

Olarewaju noted that the southern part of the country is characterized by varied voting patterns, with different ethnic groups having distinct cultural and historical backgrounds, such as the Igbos and Yorubas, which sets them apart from one another.

n

He pointed out that the northern region has consistently presented itself as a single entity, even in pre-independence politics, as exemplified by the likes of Ahmadu Bello and Tafawa Balewa, and this unity has been maintained within the ruling party since 1979.

n

Despite acknowledging the North's significant influence, Olarewaju emphasized that Atiku Abubakar will continue to campaign as a pan-Nigerian candidate, seeking votes from all parts of the country, including the South.

n

Atiku Abubakar's campaign strategy will involve reaching out to voters across the entire country, with the goal of conveying his message to Nigerians ahead of the 2027 election, according to Olarewaju.

n

Olarewaju expressed confidence that Atiku Abubakar would emerge victorious if the election were conducted in a free and fair manner, stating that he believes Atiku would defeat President Bola Tinubu in a one-on-one contest.

n

He emphasized that the outcome of the election depends on Nigerians' ability to ignore distractions and vote unanimously, which would ultimately lead to the defeat of President Bola Tinubu.

n

Olarewaju acknowledged the significant powers held by the incumbent and the potential for desperation, but remained optimistic that Atiku Abubakar would win if the election is conducted fairly and for the benefit of Nigerians.

n

The former vice president's aide stressed the importance of opposition parties avoiding fragmentation in order to successfully challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress, highlighting the need for unity to prevent a repeat of the 2023 scenario.

n

Olarewaju argued that opposition leaders must work together to prevent vote splitting and ensure a wide margin that cannot be manipulated, thereby preventing rigging.

n

When asked about Atiku Abubakar's potential retirement from politics if he loses the 2027 presidential election, Olarewaju deflected the question, stating that the focus should be on the implications of the election for ordinary Nigerians rather than the former vice president's personal future.

n

Olarewaju emphasized that Atiku Abubakar's success in politics is already established, having served as a former vice president of Nigeria, and that his personal future is not a concern, whereas the well-being of ordinary Nigerians is a more pressing issue.

n

He warned that if the APC rigs the election, it would pose a significant threat to ordinary Nigerians, and that the 2027 election's outcome will have a more substantial impact on their lives than on Atiku Abubakar's political career.