2023: Northern Traditional Rulers, Retired Military Officers Back Atiku

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar has gained the support of traditional rulers and retired military officers from the North.

The traditional rulers and retired military officers expressed their support for Atiku amidst the rift between the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike and the former vice president.

Governor Wike’s camp has insisted that the national chairman of the PDP, Iyorchia Ayu must resign from office.

A source that spoke with Tribune on the development said the northern leaders have also adopted a campaign slogan of “Alhaji Atiku, Namu Namu ne” meaning – Alhaji Atiku is our own.

The source who held a position in the administration of the former head of state, Ibrahim Babaginda said the northern leaders have charged PDP not to yield to the demands of people calling for Governor Wike’s suspension.

He noted that suspending Governor Wike from the party will give him more opportunity to demonstrate his political arrogance.

The source who spoke on behalf of the northern leaders said, “Instead, the party should tactically continue to appeal to and woo him to their side, but if he remains adamant, he would be seen as a desperate politician.” 

The source described the defection of former Governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau to the party as a big advantage.

According to him, “With Senator Shekarau now in the party, it will be an advantage for the PDP to get the bulk of votes that both the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Senator Bola Tinubu and his counterpart in the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP), Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, might secure in Kano and the North-West.”

He added that with five South-West states turning against Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde’s call for Ayu to resign, it is dangerous to Makinde’s second-term ambition.

The leaders, however, cautioned those in the camp of Wike, especially those seeking re-election to watch out.