Abati faults Atiku’s ‘Yoruba’ comment, warns against ethnic politics in 2027

Former presidential aide and broadcaster, Dr. Reuben Abati, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his recent remarks linking his family ties to Yoruba land with assurances of inclusivity in the 2027 presidential race.

Atiku had said that the Yoruba need not fear his presidency since he is married to an Ijesha woman with whom he has children.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show yesterday, Abati described the statement as “unfortunate” and a poor reflection of Atiku’s long political experience.

He argued that Nigerians are more concerned about solutions to the country’s challenges than appeals to ethnic identity.

> “That ethnic card should not work. It must not work. It is unacceptable. What Nigerians expect is not a president that talks about where he comes from or who he married, but one who can address issues like oil theft, NNPC operations, insurgency and terrorism,” Abati said.

The veteran journalist noted that the Yoruba have already produced presidents, including Olusegun Obasanjo and Bola Tinubu, stressing that representation is not the problem.

Abati urged political leaders to avoid divisive rhetoric and focus on policies that can tackle insecurity, economic mismanagement, and governance failures.