Olayinka jabs Atiku over PDP exit

|By Adejumo Adekunle-

-Questions former VP’s unrelenting presidential ambition
-Says Atiku acts like ‘Presidency’ is a doctor’s prescription

Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over what he called an unhealthy obsession with Nigeria’s presidency.

Olayinka made the remarks during an appearance on Sunrise Daily, a Channels Television programme, on Thursday. He was reacting to Atiku’s decision to dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a move the former vice president announced on Wednesday, citing dissatisfaction with the direction the party has taken.

Olayinka, known for his pointed political commentary, did not hold back.

“The only thing that interests Atiku Abubakar is to become Nigeria’s President. I’m beginning to wonder whether a doctor prescribed ‘Presidency’ for him, and if he doesn’t become President, something will happen to him,” he stated.

The remark comes amid growing reactions over Atiku’s resignation, which has triggered fresh debate within political circles about loyalty, ambition, and the future of opposition politics in Nigeria.

Though Atiku has contested for the presidency multiple times, his latest exit from the PDP signals what many see as another attempt to reposition ahead of the 2027 elections.

Olayinka’s comments are seen as a reflection of the broader discontent within some ranks of the PDP, particularly those allied with the Wike bloc, who have often criticised Atiku’s leadership and campaign strategies.

Political watchers say the public spat further deepens the cracks in the PDP, already weakened by post-election divisions and a lack of clear direction since its defeat in the 2023 polls.