“I’m More Popular Than Them”: Atiku’s Explosive Comment Triggers Fresh Tension in Coalition Talks

Abuja, Nigeria — Comments by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar during a recent interview on Arise TV have stirred fresh debate over unity and leadership strategy within Nigeria’s emerging opposition coalition.

Atiku, a key figure in ongoing coalition talks ahead of future elections, reportedly stated that he is more popular in Northern Nigeria than political figures such as Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Nasir El-Rufai, and Aminu Tambuwal. He also suggested that Kwankwaso’s political influence is largely confined to Kano State, which he noted is currently divided between the former governor and incumbent Abba Kabir Yusuf.

While some analysts acknowledge elements of truth in Atiku’s claims regarding his longstanding political presence in the North, critics argue that the tone and timing of the remarks could pose a challenge to coalition-building efforts.

Political observers warn that such statements, perceived as dismissive of fellow stakeholders, may deepen mistrust and trigger ego clashes among key actors expected to work together. This, they say, could complicate consensus-building, particularly in the event of a primary election to determine a unified candidate.

Figures like Kwankwaso and El-Rufai, alongside other influential politicians including Peter Obi, are considered critical to the success of any broad-based alliance. Analysts note that securing their full support would require careful management of relationships and a more conciliatory approach.

The development has also drawn comparisons to the internal divisions that affected the Peoples Democratic Party during the 2023 general elections. The fallout involving key stakeholders such as Nyesom Wike was widely seen as a major factor that weakened party cohesion at the time.

Observers say the current situation presents a familiar test: whether political leaders can balance personal ambition with the broader goal of unity.

As coalition discussions continue, attention is expected to focus not only on policy alignment but also on the ability of leading figures to foster trust, manage differences, and present a united front ahead of the next electoral cycle.