OYC urges Atiku to run as ADC VP, endorses Obi for 2027 presidency

The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to contest the 2027 presidential election as the Vice Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), proposing former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi as the party’s flagbearer.

In a statement issued on Monday, the President of the OYC, Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, said a Peter Obi–Atiku Abubakar joint ticket under the ADC would present the strongest opposition capable of defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Igboayaka argued that Obi, whom he described as the “star candidate”, represents Nigeria’s best chance at what he called a “national rebirth,” insisting that the former Anambra State governor has the capacity to restore public trust and revive the country’s economy.

He emphasized that Atiku should demonstrate selflessness by stepping down from the presidential slot, citing the fact that the current National Chairman of the ADC hails from the North.

According to him, this makes it more equitable for the party’s presidential candidate to emerge from the South.

“Considering that Southern Nigeria is slated to complete its tenure in 2031, it has become imperative that the African Democratic Congress restricts its 2027 Presidential ticket to the South,” Igboayaka stated.

He further claimed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has failed to meet Nigerians’ expectations, insisting that a coalition led by Peter Obi and supported by Atiku could provide what he described as the needed alternative.

“For the sake of Nigeria’s rescue, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar should pay a national price by willingly deputizing Mr Peter Obi in the 2027 Presidential Election,” Igboayaka added.

The OYC President also warned that the organization would oppose any political arrangements it believes may contribute to the continued marginalization of the Igbo people, stressing that the region must be given a fair chance in national leadership.