Age cannot stop Atiku from contesting in 2027 – Campaign camp
Hon. Dimeji Fabiyi, who served as Director of Youth Mobilization in Atiku Abubakar’s 2019 and 2023 presidential campaigns, has asserted that age will not deter the former vice president from running in the 2027 presidential race.
Fabiyi made these remarks in response to comments by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, who suggested age should be a consideration for prospective presidential candidates.
Though Makinde did not specifically mention Atiku, the former vice president would be 81 by the time of the next election, a fact that has fueled speculation.
In response, Fabiyi advised Governor Makinde to “spend more time with intellectuals and good literature rather than with heavy drinkers,” suggesting that such a company might help him avoid “sounding like someone who boasts about drinking 40-year-old whiskey.”
This jab references a past comment by Makinde’s ally, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who once mentioned he was enjoying a 40-year-old whiskey after Atiku’s previous election loss.
Fabiyi further defended Atiku, describing him as “of sound mind and body, intellectually far beyond Makinde.”
According to Fabiyi, Atiku’s experience and cosmopolitan perspective uniquely equip him for the presidency despite his age.
He even challenged Makinde to an intellectual debate with Atiku, asserting that Makinde’s perceived youthful confidence would be humbled in such a setting.
Reflecting on his nearly 30-year relationship with Atiku, Fabiyi emphasized Atiku’s intellectual side, highlighting the strength and scope of his personal library.
“Atiku doesn’t indulge in expensive wines or associate with heavy drinkers,” he remarked. “He’s a lifelong reader who prefers knowledge to luxury.” Fabiyi concluded by cautioning Makinde to avoid remarks that suggest leadership is based on “aerodynamic strength” rather than wisdom, as such comments risk making him appear foolish.
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