‘Atiku Will Not Be Nigeria’s President’ – Masari Calls Atiku a ‘Joker’ Over 2027 Presidential Ambition

Presidential Adviser on Political Matters, Alhaji Ibrahim Kabiru Masari, has criticised former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, over his ambition to contest the 2027 presidential election.

Masari made the remarks in Dutse, Jigawa State, while reacting to Atiku’s criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies and his decision to challenge the incumbent in the 2027 election. Recent reports quote Masari as describing Atiku’s ambition as a “joke” and questioning the former vice president’s prospects.

According to Masari, Atiku’s alleged determination to return to the presidency would not be enough to secure victory at the polls. He urged Nigerians not to be distracted by the former vice president’s political activities.

“Atiku is a joker, don’t waste your time listening to him. You know desperation will not give you what you want.”

Masari further said:

“Atiku is desperate and he will not become the president of this country, inshallah.”

The comments come amid increasing political exchanges ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Atiku, now the ADC presidential candidate, openly criticising some of the Tinubu administration’s economic policies.

Atiku has particularly criticised the removal of the petrol subsidy, arguing that Nigerians have faced increased pressure from higher fuel, transportation and food costs since the policy was introduced. He recently called on the Federal Government to reduce petrol prices and proposed a production subsidy for locally refined petroleum products if he is elected president.

Atiku has also argued for changes to Nigeria’s border policy, while the Presidency has disputed his description of the country’s borders as closed, stating that most land borders were reopened in 2024.

The exchange reflects the growing political contest between supporters of President Tinubu and opposition figures as parties and politicians intensify preparations for the 2027 presidential election. Masari’s remarks represent the position of the Tinubu administration’s political camp, while Atiku continues to campaign on concerns about the cost of living and the impact of current economic reforms.