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2027 Drama: Atiku Resurrects Retirees, Keyamo Scoffs at ADC Coalition

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on August 5th, 2025.

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Atiku’s Strategic Resurrection of Retirees

Atiku Abubakar, the perennial presidential aspirant and heavyweight within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has turned to a familiar strategy — reviving the political careers of seasoned politicians who had previously stepped out of the spotlight. Labelled by critics as “resurrecting retirees,” Atiku’s latest moves involve bringing back former governors, ex-ministers, and retired party stalwarts, banking on their grassroots influence and loyal networks.

Analysts see this as an effort to stabilize internal party dynamics and rebuild the PDP’s dwindling national influence. The retired heavyweights, many of whom still command respect in their constituencies, could prove to be strategic assets in mobilizing voters, countering APC dominance, and offering the much-needed experience for a coherent opposition front.

However, the move has not gone without criticism. Some within the PDP youth ranks have expressed frustration over the sidelining of younger, more progressive voices. For them, Atiku’s strategy signals a reluctance to embrace generational change, which many believe is necessary to reinvigorate the party’s appeal among younger voters.

Keyamo Scoffs at ADC Coalition

Meanwhile, Festus Keyamo, known for his fiery rhetoric and sharp political instincts, wasted no time in mocking the recent coalition formed by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and several smaller parties. The ADC-led coalition, unveiled last week, aims to present a “Third Force” alternative to Nigeria’s dominant APC-PDP duopoly.

Keyamo, speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, dismissed the coalition as “a gathering of disgruntled fringe actors with zero electoral value.” He accused the coalition leaders of lacking a clear ideological direction and being motivated solely by personal ambition and resentment.

“Coalitions without vision, structure, or credible followership are political charades,” Keyamo said. “Nigerians are not fooled. These are recycled candidates who couldn’t secure tickets in their own parties now seeking relevance under a fancy new banner.”

His remarks have drawn mixed reactions. While supporters of the ruling APC echo Keyamo’s sentiments, others argue that his comments reflect the ruling party’s fear of an emerging united opposition. Civil society actors warn that dismissing alternative political voices undermines democratic pluralism and stifles debate.

What Does This Mean for 2027?

The early fireworks suggest that the 2027 elections may be even more polarized and unpredictable than previous ones. Atiku’s revival of political elders could signal a PDP return to old-school political mobilization, but whether this will resonate with Nigeria’s increasingly youthful electorate remains to be seen.

On the other hand, the ADC coalition—though still in its infancy—could grow into a viable third force if it manages to unify its message, build a solid grassroots structure, and present a credible presidential candidate.

Keyamo’s dismissive posture, while characteristic of his combative style, also reflects the APC’s cautious watchfulness. As a senior member of the ruling party, his rhetoric may be as much a warning shot as it is a show of confidence.

Conclusion

The 2027 political terrain is shaping up to be a contest not only of personalities and parties but of narratives. Atiku is banking on experience; Keyamo is betting on ridicule to weaken emerging threats; and the ADC coalition is hoping for relevance in a highly competitive arena.

What is clear is that the drama h

as only just begun.