The African Democratic Congress (ADC) 2027 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar has warned the presidency that nothing must happen to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) 2027 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku emphasised : “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. An injury to one is an injury to all. When one opposition leader is intimidated, every opposition voice is diminished. When one citizen begins to fear because of his political beliefs, democracy itself becomes the casualty.

“The Presidency must understand that democratic leadership demands composure, not contempt. When a citizen, particularly an opposition figure, voices concerns about the state of the nation or his personal safety, the first duty of government is to reassure through statesmanship, facts and responsible conduct—not through insults.

According to him, the true measure of any democracy is not how comfortably those in power wield authority, but how safely those outside power can exercise their constitutional rights.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has directed all its state chapters and officials nationwide to immediately stop engaging lawyers concerning party issues without prior written approval from the national headquarters.

This was made known in a public notice by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the party.

Abdullahi emphasised that only the National Legal Adviser is constitutionally empowered to instruct legal practitioners or represent the party in legal proceedings, adding that violations of the directive could attract disciplinary action under the party’s constitution.

The state chapters have also been asked to always refer any court processes served on the party to the National Legal Adviser, warning that “no state chapter or officer has the authority to receive legal service on behalf of the party.”

…….Hints at Possible Withdrawal from 2027 Presidential Race

Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party leader Peter Obi has sparked fresh speculation about his political future, declaring that he may not be alive to contest the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement that has sent ripples through Nigeria’s political landscape, Obi, who came third in the 2023 presidential poll, suggested that age and health concerns could prevent him from throwing his hat into the ring again.

“I might not be alive to contest,” Obi reportedly said during a recent interaction with supporters and journalists. The remark, though delivered calmly, has triggered intense reactions across social media and political circles, with many interpreting it as a hint that the 66-year-old politician might opt out of the next presidential race.

Obi, widely admired for his frugal lifestyle and emphasis on good governance, has remained a vocal critic of the current administration’s economic policies. He has continued to tour parts of the country, addressing issues ranging from insecurity to youth unemployment. However, he has not formally declared his intention to run in 2027.

Political analysts say the statement could be Obi’s way of managing expectations while keeping his options open. “This is classic Peter Obi — honest, reflective, and strategic,” said one political commentator. “He’s signaling that leadership is not about personal ambition but about the survival and progress of the nation.”

Supporters of the former governor expressed concern over the comment, with many urging him to prioritize his health while reaffirming their loyalty. Others see it as a call for younger leaders to step forward within the Labour Party or broader opposition movement.

As the 2027 election cycle begins to heat up, all eyes remain on Obi and other major political figures. Whether his latest remark signals a permanent exit from presidential contests or merely a moment of candour remains to be seen.

The Presidency and other leading political parties have yet to respond officially to Obi’s statement.