Dr. Doyin Okupe, former spokesman and ex-Director-General of the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign Organisation, has ruled out Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s chances of winning Nigeria’s presidency in 2027. He cites geopolitical considerations and the need for power to return to the south as primary obstacles.
Okupe Highlights Geopolitical Realities
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), he emphasized that Atiku, though qualified, faces hurdles rooted in power rotation. He argued that fairness demands the south completes an eight-year tenure following President Bola Tinubu, aligning with the north’s tenure under Muhammadu Buhari.
“Atiku’s 2023 loss wasn’t about competence but the improbability of a northern Muslim succeeding another northern Muslim,” Okupe explained.
Okupe on Southern Presidency and Peter Obi
He stated that a southern presidency in 2027 would honour Nigeria’s unwritten power rotation agreement. He suggested Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 candidate, could contest but noted the challenge of defeating Tinubu if his performance remains strong.
“Obi is capable and ambitious, but Tinubu’s progress strengthens his position for 2027,” Okupe remarked.
Opposition Unity Remains Elusive
Okupe expressed skepticism about opposition unity, citing selfishness and lack of maturity as major barriers. He noted past alliances only succeeded when major concessions were made, referencing Buhari’s 2015 coalition supported by Tinubu.
Without compromise, opposition leaders like Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso will struggle to align behind a single candidate.
Dr. Doyin Okupe
Okupe Praises Tinubu’s Leadership
He praised Tinubu as focused and zealous, likening his leadership to transformative figures like Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew. He urged Nigerians to prioritize progress over politics for long-term national development.
“Tinubu’s emergence is a blessing. Nigeria must embrace transformation for future generations,” he concluded.
