By Divine Sam.
A prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Otunba Segun Sowunmi, has declared that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar cannot be coerced into abandoning his ambition to contest the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking amid ongoing debates over Atiku’s continued participation in presidential politics, Sowunmi emphasized that Atiku retains every constitutional right to run, irrespective of how many times he has contested in the past.
Atiku, who previously lost to candidates of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2019 and 2023, has faced criticism from those calling for younger aspirants to take the mantle. Critics argue that his repeated attempts should make way for new leadership within the PDP.
However, Sowunmi dismissed such calls as unnecessary interference, asserting that the decision to run is personal and legally protected.
“Politics often involves pressure, persuasion, and even intimidation, but ultimately, every Nigerian has the constitutional right to seek elective office through their party. Rather than focusing on pushing Atiku out, people should channel their energy into strategies for winning elections,” he said.
Sowunmi added that attempts to pressure Atiku would only strengthen his resolve, describing him as a politician not easily swayed by external pressure.
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