Senator Victor Umeh has said former Vice President Atiku Abubakar remains a respected political figure but should step aside to allow a new generation of leaders to emerge ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, the lawmaker representing Anambra Central noted that Atiku has consistently contested for the presidency since 2003 and should now consider supporting younger aspirants within the political space.
“We respect him, but it’s time to step aside,” Umeh said, adding that Atiku’s experience and influence remain valuable but should now be channelled into mentoring and backing fresh candidates.
He argued that those being positioned as alternatives are bringing forward new ideas capable of delivering the kind of change Nigerians desire, stressing that any serious challenge to the incumbent must be anchored on a different vision.
“To challenge a president who is not willing to leave, you must be offering Nigerians something different,” he said.
Umeh maintained that Atiku should begin to reconsider his continued participation in presidential contests in order to create room for younger politicians to take the lead.
The remarks come amid ongoing political manoeuvring within opposition circles, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as discussions intensify over possible candidates for the 2027 general election.
In a related development, Umeh also defended the recent visit by Peter Obi to former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, describing the engagement as noble rather than an act of political desperation.
He dismissed claims that Obi visited Amaechi to beg him to step down for him, describing such suggestions as “condescending” and unfounded.
“Obi’s visit to Amaechi was a noble one with good intention. You have to talk to your opponent,” Umeh said, emphasising that political dialogue is essential for building alliances and strengthening democratic processes.
He further noted that Obi did not visit Amaechi alone but was accompanied by other associates, countering narratives that the meeting was driven by personal ambition.
Umeh insisted that Obi is not a politician who would beg for power, adding that Amaechi himself is aware of that.
“Saying Peter Obi went to beg Amaechi to step down for him is very condescending. Obi is not someone who will beg you for what he wants or what is right,” he said.
The comments come amid increasing political consultations and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition figures exploring possible collaborations to strengthen their chances.
