There Is A Rumour That Maybe Eventually Atiku Will Step Down,So That It’ll Be Obi Versus BAT -Ayoade

In a recent interview on Edmund Obilo, on Monday, October 5, 2026, Prof. John Ayoade, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Political Science, University of Ibadan, discussed the political calculations and emerging possibilities ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Ayoade explained that there are different political expectations and rumours concerning the major opposition figures and how the presidential contest could eventually take shape.

According to Ayoade, “There is a rumour that maybe eventually Atiku will step down, so that it will be Obi versus Tinubu.” He presented the possibility as a rumour while discussing the political manoeuvring surrounding the 2027 election.

He explained that the possibility of a contest between Peter Obi and President Bola Tinubu could emerge if Atiku Abubakar eventually decided not to continue with his presidential ambition.

Ayoade also discussed the activities of political power brokers, arguing that some individuals who are not necessarily holding prominent political offices can still influence political decisions and determine the direction of political events.

The professor maintained that Nigerians should pay attention to the interests behind political arrangements, particularly when political actors attempt to influence who contests elections and who withdraws.

He further noted that the political environment ahead of 2027 would continue to produce rumours, realignments and strategic calculations among politicians and political groups.

Ayoade said the emergence of different political possibilities showed that the 2027 presidential contest was still developing and that the eventual shape of the election could be influenced by decisions made by major political figures.

He concluded that political developments ahead of the election would continue to generate discussions about the major contenders and the possibility of different combinations in the presidential race.

Click on the link to watch the video from 5:20 – 5:31

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