Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has advised former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to stop contesting elections in Nigeria.
Atiku, who has unsuccessfully run for president six times (1993, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023), with three losses occurring at primaries, recently hinted at another potential run.
In an interview with Voice of America Hausa earlier this year, Atiku said, “God willing” when asked if he would contest again.
However, Fayose believes it’s time for Atiku to step aside, he said, “I am sure at this stage, with all due respect to him, he would rather want to stay away from politics of contesting elections again,” Fayose said on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics while discussing the crisis in the PDP.
Fayose questioned the rationale behind Atiku’s potential seventh run, citing his age saying, “By the time Asiwaju (Bola Tinubu) will finish, Atiku Abubakar will probably be 80 or 81, so what will be the attraction?”
He emphasized the importance of leaving the stage when the ovation is loudest, while respecting Atiku.
He said, “We should leave the stage when the ovation is loudest. I respect him, and I think Nigerians are craving for a younger generation than ever before, so on what basis will Atiku come and contest again?”
Fayose’s comments come amidst speculation about Atiku’s intentions for the 2027 presidential elections. Despite his advanced age, Atiku remains a significant figure in Nigerian politics, and his decision will likely impact the political landscape.
