Joe Igbokwe, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has stirred political discussions with his recent statement about Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to Igbokwe, Atiku cannot become Nigeria’s president in 2027.

The APC chieftain shared his thoughts on Monday via his Facebook page. He argued that Atiku’s presidential aspirations would not succeed in 2027 and suggested the former vice president should aim for 2031 instead. Igbokwe added, “Atiku is still dreaming of becoming Nigeria’s president in 2027, but it cannot work out. He should wait till 2031, though even then, his age may be a challenge.”

Igbokwe’s remarks followed a similar statement from George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). Akume had advised Northern politicians, including Atiku, to allow President Bola Tinubu to complete a second term in 2027 without opposition from the region.

Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, responded to Akume’s comment, dismissing the idea that Tinubu should automatically secure re-election. Ibe argued that Tinubu has not achieved enough to justify a second term in office.

Adding to the conversation, former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau stressed that Nigeria’s leadership should not focus on regional considerations. He stated that Nigerians should prioritize electing credible leaders rather than limiting the presidency to specific regions.

The discussion highlights the ongoing debates surrounding Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, regional power rotations, and the search for credible leadership.