The presidency has stated that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar might not become Nigeria’s president because it may not align with God’s will. The Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, made this remark on Monday during an interview on TVC. He discussed political succession and the future of opposition politics in Nigeria.
Bwala advised Atiku to accept this possibility with grace and consider working alongside President Tinubu to help develop the nation.
“If I get the chance to meet him personally, I will say: ‘Your Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, destiny plays a role in leadership. God grants power to whoever He wishes, and based on current realities, it may not have been God’s will for you to lead Nigeria,’” Bwala explained.
The presidential aide encouraged Atiku, the former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to collaborate with Tinubu’s government. Bwala emphasized that Atiku could still leave a lasting legacy through his contributions, even if they are realized under someone else’s leadership.
“There are many ways to make an impact. Since you’ve been a longtime friend of President Tinubu, both of you can unite to achieve the vision you share for Nigeria. Your legacy can be remembered for these contributions during your final political years,” Bwala advised.
He warned that if Atiku insists on running for president again, the end of his political career might not be favorable. Bwala pointed out that Atiku has lost the support of a large number of his political allies, estimating this loss at 60 to 70 percent.
Bwala also noted that younger politicians, many of whom previously supported Atiku, are now pursuing power independently and are unlikely to backtrack on their ambitions. His comments come amid a wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In March, Atiku expressed uncertainty about contesting the presidency in 2027, citing the need for a strong political platform as a determining factor.
