In a dramatic twist in Nigeria’s evolving opposition narrative, supporters of Peter Obi — known as the Obidients — have issued an emotional appeal to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar: relinquish your presidential bid for 2027, and let Obi carry the torch.
The Plea from the Grassroots
During synchronized mega-rallies across Abia State—in Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia, and Uzuakoli—Obidients appealed to Atiku to step aside.
At the heart of the message: what Nigeria needs now is unity behind a candidate with integrity, vision, and cross‑regional appeal.
Dr. Chibuzor Obiesili, a leading organizer, framed the call as a patriotic sacrifice:
L“Atiku has tried his best for Nigeria. But his greatest gift now would be to allow Obi lead the charge. Let the opposition coalition cede the spotlight to the man with the heart and competence to rescue this nation.”
The rallies, held in honor of Obi’s 64th birthday, also doubled as celebrations of his perceived steadfastness in advocating for ordinary Nigerians.
Ambition, Principle & Electability
The proposal for Atiku to bow out isn’t without pushback or criticism.
Voices within political and civil society circles warn that asking a seasoned politician to withdraw may undermine democratic processes or set dangerous precedents.
Kenneth Okonkwo, a former spokesman for Obi’s campaign, recently cautioned that such moves should be voluntary—not coerced:
“Let each candidate contest primaries. The one who withstood tough internal battles is likely better equipped for the general election.”
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The deeper question: is this an act of statesmanship or political maneuvering? Elite realignments in Nigeria’s opposition politics are rarely straightforward, and hidden trade-offs often lurk beneath public appeals.
Obi’s Position: Independent Vision or Coalition Contingency?
Peter Obi himself has publicly rejected any secret deal with Atiku, affirming his commitment to contest in 2027 and advocating fair rotation of power between North and South.
Yet behind the scenes, speculation swirls of shifting alliances, reconfigured strategies, and coalition bargaining. Obi has suggested he may even limit himself to one term if elected—a symbolic gesture to break Nigeria’s cycle of entrenched incumbency.
For many Obidients, the appeal to Atiku is not only about winning votes but also reclaiming a sense of moral purpose in politics.
