Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the ruling party of pursuing a political strategy aimed at weakening his support base in Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atiku alleged that the ruling party was working to undermine his political influence in the region because of his growing popularity and longstanding support among voters in the North.
The former presidential candidate expressed concern over what he described as deliberate efforts to reduce his political strength and limit his chances of securing widespread support during the forthcoming elections.
According to him, the political manoeuvres are part of broader efforts by the ruling party to strengthen its position ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.
Atiku, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), remains one of the prominent opposition figures positioning himself ahead of the next general elections.
His political influence in Northern Nigeria has remained a significant factor in discussions surrounding the 2027 presidential race, given the region’s large voting population and importance in determining electoral outcomes.
The former vice president has also been involved in discussions about opposition cooperation and the possibility of building a stronger political platform capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Meanwhile, the ruling party has continued to strengthen its political structures across the country as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
The contest is expected to be shaped by political alliances, party structures, economic conditions, security concerns and the ability of presidential aspirants to attract voters across the country’s geopolitical zones.
Atiku’s allegation adds another dimension to the growing political tension ahead of the elections, with the North expected to remain a major battleground for political parties seeking to secure victory in 2027.
However, the ruling party’s response to the allegation and the extent to which the development could affect political alignments in the region remain key issues to watch as the election approaches.