Ayo Fayose: Atiku's Age a Barrier for 2027 Presidential Ambition

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has openly expressed his view that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, is past the ideal age for another electoral contest. During an appearance on TVC’s "Politics Tonight" programme on Tuesday, August 18, Mr. Fayose drew a parallel between Mr. Abubakar and former United States President Joe Biden, suggesting both are too advanced in years for the rigours of presidential elections.

Beyond Atiku's age, Fayose also touched on the political viability of Atiku's running mate, Rotimi Amaechi. He argued that Amaechi would face significant hurdles in the South-South region due to a perceived lack of grassroots political sway.

"Atiku is now really old. He’s a good man, but time has caught up with him. Atiku contesting an election is like calling Biden to come and contest again," Fayose stated emphatically during the interview. He further added a broader perspective on the current political landscape, asserting, "Let me say this again: President Bola Tinubu, Atiku and Peter Obi, this is their last chance of contesting an election. The three of them."

Commenting on the state of opposition parties, the former governor highlighted internal disunity and a lack of connection with the electorate. He specifically noted the challenges Amaechi would encounter in Rivers State. "In Rivers State, during this election, Amaechi will have very little support. Even the party is not together. Most of these ADC and Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, members are not on ground. Nobody is connected to those parties yet," Fayose elaborated, underscoring his belief that these parties lack substantial support at the grassroots level.