Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is reportedly under increasing pressure to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race as political negotiations intensify within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with a growing push for a possible alliance between supporters of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
While Atiku’s supporters are still advocating for him as either the party’s candidate or part of a joint ticket with Obi, a rival bloc is increasingly backing an Obi–Kwankwaso pairing as a stronger option to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the election.
Some political figures and analysts argue that Atiku should step aside in favour of a younger candidate, while others maintain that his experience and influence in the North still make him a strong contender. A few voices also suggest he could enhance his political legacy by supporting a consensus candidate instead of contesting again.
Atiku has maintained that he remains competitive, especially in northern Nigeria, but has also said he would respect any candidate chosen through a fair and democratic process within the party.
Meanwhile, supporters of Obi and Kwankwaso have reportedly formed a joint movement aimed at securing the ADC ticket, with talks ongoing about a possible arrangement where Kwankwaso could serve as running mate to Obi.
They argue that a united front is necessary to defeat the ruling party.
The emerging alignments have created tension between rival supporter groups, with heated exchanges online and warnings from some Atiku loyalists against forcing him out of the race. Political observers say the situation reflects deeper struggles over leadership, generational change, and strategy ahead of 2027.
