Abuja — The All Progressives Congress (APC), through its National Vice Chairman (North West), Garba Muhammad, has issued a strong caution to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai regarding their perceived ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a detailed open letter, Muhammad advised Atiku to abandon any plans of contesting the 2027 presidential election, urging him to embrace his role as an elder statesman. He highlighted Atiku’s longstanding pursuit of the presidency, dating back to 1993, and expressed concerns over potential plans to form a coalition with discontented political actors in a bid to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“At 80, Alhaji Atiku should consider stepping aside from active political contest and take a cue from other former Vice Presidents like Namadi Sambo, who have quietly contributed from the background since leaving office,” Muhammad stated.
He criticized Atiku’s potential alliance with el-Rufai and others, labeling such political moves as unproductive and unnecessary. According to Muhammad, Atiku’s record—including his role in fuel subsidy removal and leading the privatization committee during the Obasanjo administration—offered no new direction for the country.
Turning to el-Rufai, Muhammad urged the former governor to reconcile with the APC, reminding him of his pivotal role in the formation and growth of the party. He referenced el-Rufai’s previous declaration that leaving the APC would signify his complete exit from politics.
“It is disheartening to see someone who once claimed he had no further political ambitions suddenly becoming critical of the party he helped build,” Muhammad said. “You should either return to the APC or make a dignified exit from politics.”
He also cautioned against emotional and baseless political tactics, warning that aligning with fringe movements like the SDP would be a grave miscalculation, particularly as PDP governors are unlikely to abandon their established structure.
Muhammad emphasized the ongoing unity and progress in Kaduna under Governor Uba Sani, noting significant endorsements from former opposition figures and enhanced rural development. He praised the collaboration between Governor Sani and Speaker Abbas Tajudeen for delivering impactful governance.
He further highlighted the political prominence of the North West under the current administration, pointing to the region’s control of major national offices, including the Speaker of the House, Deputy Senate President, national party chairman, and two key service chiefs. The region also boasts 12 ministerial appointments, many in critical portfolios.
According to Muhammad, the North West has never been more politically empowered and should consolidate rather than disrupt the current trajectory.
