A former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Dumebi Kachikwu, has cautioned Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 standard-bearer, against forming a joint ticket with ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the upcoming 2027 general election. Kachikwu expressed his concerns during a press conference in Abuja, labeling such an alliance as unjust and politically immoral, given Nigeria’s power rotation dynamics.
He emphasized that any candidate from a major party running for the 2027 election should be from the South, arguing that this is necessary for equity. Kachikwu criticized northern political actors for attempting to maintain power in the region, especially in light of the recent eight-year tenure of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Kachikwu questioned the credibility of opposition figures who focus solely on ousting President Bola Tinubu without proposing concrete policy alternatives. He remarked on the lack of discussion regarding pressing national issues, such as the economy and healthcare.
Expressing concern about attempts to pressure Obi into accepting a vice-presidential position under Atiku, Kachikwu stated, “What manner of rubbish is that? He must not accept it.” He affirmed Obi’s capability to run independently, asserting that he possesses the qualifications to aspire for the presidency.
Kachikwu also criticized efforts to manipulate the ADC structure, alleging that some state chairmen were being bribed to resign. He accused Atiku of orchestrating these actions for personal gain, citing historical precedents where Atiku’s ambitions disrupted party unity.
He challenged Atiku to publicly endorse the idea of the presidency remaining in the South, stating that such a declaration would demonstrate his commitment to equity. Kachikwu concluded by asserting that the ADC is not for sale and urged political actors to focus on building their respective parties rather than undermining others.
