A prominent member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Segun Adewale, has declared that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is the leader Nigeria urgently needs to fix its struggling economy.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Friday, Adewale—popularly known as Aeroland—said Atiku remains a tested and capable leader, and urged critics to stop calling for his exit from the PDP.
His comments follow recent criticisms from PDP stalwarts like Chief Bode George and former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, who advised Atiku not to contest under the PDP in the 2027 elections. George accused him of anti-party activities, while Fayose vowed to oppose any fresh presidential bid from Atiku.
Adewale, however, dismissed these criticisms, saying, “No one should play God over Atiku’s ambition. He has been tested, tried, and has proven himself. He’s one of the few politicians who is content and genuinely understands Nigeria’s challenges.”
He also accused Atiku’s critics within the PDP of serving personal interests, not the party or the nation. “Anyone in the PDP saying Atiku shouldn’t run in 2027 is working for the opposition. They are not thinking about Nigeria; they’re thinking about their pockets,” he said.
Adewale stressed that no single opposition party can defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) alone—not even Labour Party’s Peter Obi. He advocated for a united opposition coalition and a reformed electoral system to ensure credible elections in 2027.
He also recounted his own experience of alleged electoral manipulation in Lagos, saying: “It’s not about popularity or competence anymore; it’s about the system. That must change if we want a better Nigeria.”
Adewale concluded by calling on Nigerians to demand better governance and work together to bring about real change in the country.