The President of the National Political Science Association of Nigeria (NPSA), Prof. Hassan Saliu, has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of hindering the growth of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Atiku was the party’s presidential candidate in the 2019 and 2023 elections, and he will likely contest again in the 2027 polls.
In an interview with Punch, Prof. Saliu stated that Atiku’s ambition is hurting the PDP. He observed that the issues that existed within the party before the presidential primary, and even after the presidential primaries, are still present. Therefore, the only way to bring unity to the PDP is for Atiku to abandon his ambition.
According to Prof. Saliu, Atiku’s age is a factor that should be considered, and if he decides to run for president under the PDP, it may not bode well for the party. He believes that Atiku should be mindful of the political climate and make a decision that is in the best interest of the PDP.
Prof. Saliu emphasized that Atiku’s interest should never override that of the PDP. Each time Atiku emerges as a presidential candidate, it creates problems that eventually affect the party’s chances. Therefore, he stressed that Atiku should allow the PDP to breathe new life and abandon his presidential ambition.