Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has firmly rejected calls to step down for a Southern presidential candidate, insisting that merit, not zoning, should determine the 2027 flagbearer.
Following a closed-door meeting with ADC leaders, Atiku called for open and transparent primaries, pushing back against mounting pressure from Southern stakeholders who argue it’s the South’s turn based on equity and rotational power.
“I will not be pressured into abandoning my constitutional right to aspire.
Let every qualified member test their popularity through a credible primary.
Zoning must not be used to silence competence,” he declared.
His stance has sparked a fierce backlash from the Obidient Movement, who insist Peter Obi remains the coalition’s only viable candidate.
Across social media, Obidients are threatening to withdraw if Atiku remains in the race.
The brewing conflict now threatens to fracture the fragile opposition alliance, with insiders warning of a possible collapse before the coalition can even take shape.
Observers say unless both camps find common ground, the infighting may derail efforts to mount a credible challenge to the ruling party in 2027.
