Chief Segun Adewale, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has defended former Vice President Atiku Abubakar amid growing calls for him to quit politics. Adewale insists that Abubakar remains the leader Nigeria needs to fix its struggling economy.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lagos, the former PDP Chairman in Lagos State, popularly known as Aeroland, dismissed suggestions that Abubakar should step aside or leave the party.
This follows recent criticisms from within the PDP. Notably, former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, and ex-Governor of Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose, have both advised Abubakar not to run for president under the PDP in 2027. George even called for his immediate resignation from the party, accusing him of anti-party activities, while Fayose vowed to oppose his candidacy.
Responding, Adewale said it was wrong for anyone to assume the role of a political gatekeeper over Atiku’s ambition.
“He has been tested, tried, and has shown contentment in leadership. He’s not driven by greed like many others in the political space,” Adewale said.
“Atiku understands Nigeria’s political and economic challenges. Unlike some politicians who are just seeking power for personal gain, he genuinely wants to fix the system.”
He accused Abubakar’s critics of acting out of selfish interest rather than national concern.
“Most of the opposition Atiku faces is sadly from within his own party. It’s not even coming from the outside. These critics are not working for Nigeria or the PDP — they are working for their pockets.”
Adewale also criticized those within the PDP who oppose Abubakar’s proposed coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying such resistance only serves to weaken the party.
“No single opposition party can defeat the APC alone — not even the Labour Party led by Peter Obi,” he said. “That’s why a coalition is necessary, and opposing it only benefits the ruling party.”
He called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s electoral system, alleging that he had been a victim of rigged elections multiple times in Lagos State.
“It’s not just about popularity or performance. The system itself is broken. Until we fix that, credible leaders will continue to lose out,” he stated.
Adewale concluded by emphasizing the need for a change in leadership and direction, noting that Nigerians are exhausted from enduring bad governance.
“People are tired. They want a new direction and a breath of fresh air,” he said.
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