Former VP Atiku Abubakar Promises Yoruba Priority In 2027 Governance While Dismissing Fears Of Ethnic Domination

 

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has made a strong pledge to the Yoruba people, promising to prioritize their interests in governance and policymaking should he secure the presidency of Nigeria in 2027. The seasoned politician, who has contested multiple times for the nation’s highest office, used deeply personal and cultural connections to emphasize the seriousness of his commitment.

Speaking through his Media Consultant, Kola Johnson, Atiku explained that Yoruba people hold a unique and irreplaceable place in his life. He said this bond was not only political but also deeply personal, as demonstrated through his marriage to his wife, Titi Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as a jewel of inestimable value from Ijesa, Osun State. According to him, this relationship symbolizes a family-like union between himself and the Yoruba people, leaving no room for fears of marginalization if he becomes president.

He stressed that his government would not tolerate or promote domination of any ethnic group over another, particularly dismissing concerns that his rise to power might empower Hausa or Fulani interests above those of the Yoruba. Atiku explained that his own family ties and respect for the Yoruba culture guarantee an inclusive administration that will recognize and prioritize the aspirations of the South West.

“Yoruba people are not just friends but family to me. Through my marriage and years of interactions, I have come to see the Yoruba nation as an extension of my personal household. This is why their interests will always occupy a topmost position in my policy making and governance if I am fortunate to become president in 2027,” Atiku said.

He went further to dismiss insinuations that his presidency would create lopsided leadership that tilts toward Hausa or Fulani dominance. According to him, those fears are not only unfounded but also a misrepresentation of his values and political orientation. His message was clear: ethnic equality, fairness, and unity will guide his administration.

The former vice president acknowledged Nigeria’s fragile political balance, noting that concerns about ethnic favoritism have shaped leadership debates in the country for decades. He argued that what Nigeria needs is a leadership structure that accommodates every ethnic group equitably, with respect for diversity and cultural richness. Atiku promised that if elected, he would ensure governance that embraces inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.

Observers have described Atiku’s remarks as both strategic and symbolic, especially considering Nigeria’s history of ethnic politics. The Yoruba people, who make up a significant voting bloc, have often expressed caution when choosing candidates who are not from their region. Atiku’s declaration appears to be a calculated attempt to bridge such gaps while consolidating political goodwill across ethnic lines.

The former vice president also used the opportunity to reflect on his long-standing relationship with Yoruba leaders, communities, and institutions. He credited these associations for strengthening his political perspective and reaffirming his belief that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. Atiku added that his experience working with Yoruba politicians and technocrats has always been marked by excellence, vision, and dedication, qualities he said would shape his administration’s direction.

Political analysts believe Atiku’s promise is timely as the country prepares for another heated election season. His words come at a period when Nigerians are increasingly concerned about ethnic balance in leadership, equitable distribution of resources, and fair representation at the federal level. The Yoruba, being a dominant cultural and political force, remain crucial to any candidate’s chances of success in national elections.

Atiku’s assurances highlight his broader campaign message of national unity. He reminded Nigerians that governance is not about ethnic domination but about creating an environment where all groups can thrive equally. He pledged to focus on policies that support economic development, education, job creation, and infrastructure growth, with the Yoruba playing a central role in his governance structure.

The statement issued by his media team echoed his confidence that Yoruba people would see themselves not only as beneficiaries of his government but also as active participants in shaping policies. His appeal was both emotional and political, tapping into family connections while projecting an image of inclusivity.

As Nigeria looks toward 2027, Atiku’s message will resonate differently among various groups. For the Yoruba, the promise of priority in governance and policy making may be a source of reassurance, while for the wider electorate, it signals a continuation of his long-standing advocacy for unity and fairness. The weeks and months ahead will show how this message influences his political trajectory and how Yoruba leaders and communities respond to his assurances.

Atiku’s declaration underscores the growing importance of cultural and familial ties in Nigerian politics. More than just words, his appeal to shared identity reflects a strategy designed to build trust and confidence among people who have historically been cautious about domination from other ethnic blocs. Whether this approach translates into political gains at the polls remains to be seen, but it has certainly placed the Yoruba people at the center of his campaign narrative.