The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has advised former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar to support President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Bwala gave the advice during an interview on Symfoni TV, where he questioned Atiku’s current political strength and future chances.
He said Atiku has never historically relied on a strong regional voting base, noting that his support has always been spread across the country.
“Historically, Atiku has never commanded more votes from the Northwest. His votes are usually spread across the nation because of his national outlook,” he said.
According to him, Atiku’s influence in the North may not be as strong as many people assume, especially considering recent political developments.
“In 2023, he even lost some states in the Northeast. So we are speaking to facts and figures, not assumptions,” Bwala stated.
He also pointed to the influence of other political figures.
He said the presence of Rabiu Kwankwaso, who has now aligned with Peter Obi, has further reduced Atiku’s political strength.
“There is the Kwankwaso factor who has now aligned with Peter Obi, and his influence has affected Atiku. So when you ask about Atiku’s electoral value now, you have to consider these realities,” he added.
Bwala questioned the former vice president’s political structure, asking who his key allies are at the state level.
“I ask you, who are Atiku’s governors? What structure does he have? He doesn’t really have that structure,” he said.
He described the 2023 presidential election as Atiku’s best chance at becoming president, adding that the circumstances at the time worked in his favour.
“2023 was the biggest opportunity Atiku had in his political life,” he said.
Bwala explained that certain narratives during the election period, including religious and regional sentiments, helped Atiku gain support.
“There was this belief that power would remain in the North, and that influenced how people voted. Religious leaders and political actors also played a role in shaping opinions,” he said.
However, he noted that many of the key political figures and supporters who worked for Atiku in 2023 are no longer with him.
“The people who were strong supporters then are no longer with him now. That has weakened his position,” he added.
Bwala also expressed concern that Atiku could perform below expectations if he contests again in 2027.
“My fear is that he might even perform below expectations, possibly behind other candidates. What would that mean for his legacy?” he said.
He then advised Atiku to consider supporting President Tinubu instead of running again.
“I want to urge him to come and sit with his friend (Tinubu), and support him. He has four years to complete his term, and after that, you can pursue your interests not you (Atiku) but whoever you think should be part of the process,” he said.