Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation magazine and a key figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has stated that whether Atiku Abubakar becomes Nigeria’s president in 2027 will be determined by God and destiny. Momodu made this comment during an interview on Channels Television, where he addressed criticisms of Abubakar’s continued presidential ambitions, particularly from former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose.
Fayose had recently urged Abubakar, who will be 81 by the time of the 2027 elections, to step aside due to his age, arguing that Nigerians are now seeking younger leaders. Abubakar, currently 77, has run for the presidency six times, appearing on the ballot in 2007, 2019, and 2023. There is increasing speculation that he may seek the PDP’s ticket again in 2027.
In response to Fayose’s remarks, Momodu asserted that no one has the right to dictate Abubakar’s political path. “Why are they afraid of him?” Momodu asked, pointing out that many critics did not support younger candidates in the 2023 elections. He further argued that age should not be seen as a barrier to leadership, citing examples like U.S. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, who have held or sought office in their later years.
“Age cannot be an automatic qualification or disqualification in politics,” Momodu said. He emphasized that leadership should be evaluated by performance, not age, and questioned what younger politicians have achieved with the resources available to them.
Momodu concluded by saying, “If Atiku decides to run, good luck to him. If he doesn’t, no problem. But no one should try to muzzle him.” He also suggested that those criticizing Abubakar see him as a potential threat in 2027, noting that if Abubakar can build a strong political coalition and the national mood is opposed to the current leadership, he could be a formidable contender.
Atiku Abubakar, a seasoned politician and former vice president under President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007, has been a major figure in Nigeria’s political scene for decades. Despite multiple attempts, he has yet to win the presidency, but his continued ambition ensures his presence in every electoral cycle.
