Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has called on the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, to reconsider his political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections. Fayose believes that Atiku, who will be nearing 80 by then, should retire from active politics as Nigerians are increasingly looking for younger leadership.
In an interview with The Nation, Fayose emphasized that it's better for Atiku to exit the political stage while his legacy remains intact. "Atiku will be close to 80 by the time President Bola Ahmed Tinubu finishes his first term. What would be the attraction at that age? Nigerians want younger leaders, and it’s time to step aside when the applause is loudest," Fayose remarked.
He also criticized the current state of the PDP, pointing out that without a solid party structure, it would be difficult to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). "We can talk about defeating APC, but how do you do that when the party is fragmented?" Fayose asked.
Fayose further noted that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has increasingly become the voice of opposition in Nigeria, questioning the PDP's relevance in today’s political landscape. "Where is the party now? It’s almost gone," Fayose concluded.
