Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has said he is prepared to support any candidate who emerges through consensus or a direct primary within the opposition coalition being built around the African Democratic Congress, including former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi.
Atiku made the comments on Wednesday during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time, where he addressed questions about unity among opposition figures and the process of choosing a presidential candidate ahead of the next election cycle. Asked whether he would step aside in the interest of unity if a consensus candidate emerged, Atiku said the issue was not simply about withdrawing, but about supporting whoever is chosen by the coalition.
“It’s not the issue of stepping aside, rather would I support? In the coalition, the first option would be to work out a consensus, if that doesn’t emerge then we go for direct primary and I will support anybody who emerges,” he said. The former vice-president said consensus remained the coalition’s preferred option, but added that an internal election would be held if agreement could not be reached.
“Consensus is the first option as far as the party is concerned. We will aim at consensus; if we don’t get it, then we go for election,” he added.
When specifically asked whether he would step aside for Obi if the former Labour Party presidential candidate was considered more popular, Atiku replied: “I will step aside for any winner.” Pressed further on whether that included Obi, he said: “Of course, if he is a contender, why not.”
Atiku’s remarks come amid efforts by opposition politicians to build a stronger coalition under the ADC platform, as they seek to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress in future elections. The comments are also significant because Atiku and Obi have previously contested on the same ticket. Obi was Atiku’s running mate in the 2019 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party before later emerging as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023. By signalling readiness to back Obi or any other contender who emerges through an agreed process, Atiku appeared to be positioning unity as the coalition’s priority.
