A public affairs analyst, Alaibi Nnana Joseph, has criticised those urging former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the 2027 general elections, asserting that democracy cannot progress if seasoned leaders are sidelined out of fear.
In a statement released to Vanguard in Abuja, Nnana argued that those advocating for Atiku’s retirement are not defending democracy but avoiding it.
He maintained that the only appropriate method to assess leadership capability—whether from veterans such as Atiku or newer figures like Peter Obi—is through open and competitive party primaries.
“The 2027 race should not be a coronation arranged in backrooms. It should be a contest before the people. If Obi, Goodluck Jonathan, or anyone else believes they can do better, let them prove it at the ballot. That is how democracies mature—through open competition, not shortcuts,” he stated.
He accused certain opposition members of seeking to sideline Atiku before the official campaign begins, due to their awareness of his significant political influence in Nigeria.
“Atiku has nothing left to prove, but he still has much to offer—experience, structure, and a bridge across Nigeria’s divides. Those calling for him to step down are not protecting democracy; they are afraid of a fair fight. Who’s afraid of Atiku? Clearly, those who know that once the race begins, the man from Adamawa still towers above the field, not by noise or nostalgia, but by sheer resilience, record, and reach.”
Nnana cautioned against framing leadership solely around age, noting that history has demonstrated both young and old leaders have failed, just as others from both age groups have led with wisdom and foresight.
“Leadership is not about birthdays. It is about courage, character, and ideas. Atiku’s deep understanding of governance, his unmatched political network, and his consistency on economic and institutional reforms are qualities Nigeria needs now more than ever. These don’t fade with age; like wine, they get better,” he stressed.
The analyst also pointed out that Atiku has not demanded an automatic candidacy nor discouraged younger contestants. Rather, he insists that anyone aspiring to lead must subject themselves to a transparent primary process.
“Those invoking Mandela to demand Atiku’s retirement miss the point,” Nnana argued. “Mandela’s greatness was not about the date he retired but about the principles he defended. Nigeria today faces weak institutions, insecurity, and economic collapse. This is no time to gamble with political experiments.”
He further stated that Atiku’s political career—from his contributions during the 1990s democratic transition to his tenure as vice president and his persistent advocacy for restructuring—demonstrates resilience and consistency that no other opposition figure can match.
“If the opposition is weak today, it is not because Atiku refuses to retire. It is because too many are afraid of real primaries, afraid of internal democracy, and afraid of merit defeating manipulation. Those who truly believe in their mandate should not fear Atiku. Let the people decide, not smoky-room bargains.”
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