ARISE News analyst Dayo Sobowale has praised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for reaching out to former rivals after emerging as his party’s presidential candidate, describing the move as a sign of political maturity and strategic leadership.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, Sobowale said Atiku’s efforts to reconcile aggrieved aspirants following the party’s primaries reflect lessons learned from previous political experiences.
“Atiku’s reconciliation efforts show political maturity,” he said.
According to Sobowale, Atiku appears determined to avoid mistakes that contributed to divisions in previous political platforms.
“He has learned from his experience,” he stated.
Sobowale said that political parties often suffer internal crises after primaries because defeated aspirants feel sidelined or unfairly treated.
“In every primary election, there are bound to be people with grievances,” he said.
He maintained that Atiku’s decision to immediately engage former opponents demonstrates an understanding of the importance of party unity ahead of a major election.
“He has learnt his lessons,” he stated.
According to Sobowale, the reconciliation process should focus on moving the party forward rather than reopening disputes arising from the primaries.
“Let sleeping dogs lie,” he said.
He maintained that dwelling excessively on allegations and internal disagreements could weaken the party’s chances in future elections.
“Let’s move ahead and build the party,” he stated.
Sobowale also commended the conduct of the party’s primaries, noting that there had been no major reports of violence or disruption.
“We have not heard of any violence or thuggery,” he said.
According to him, the willingness of leading aspirants to work together after a competitive contest is essential for building a strong political platform.
“That is how to build a party,” he stated.
Sobowale further stated that Atiku remains a relevant political figure despite criticism over his repeated presidential ambitions.
“People voted for him in the primaries,” he said.
According to him, Atiku’s long political experience and national profile continue to make him attractive to many party members.
“He has some value and some worth,” he stated.
Sobowale emphasized that opposition parties must remain united if they hope to provide a credible challenge to the ruling APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
“They must really be on firm footing,” he said.
He warned that parties unable to resolve internal disputes would struggle to convince voters they can effectively govern the country.
“If you can’t put your house in order, how can you put the country in order?” he stated.
According to Sobowale, a strong opposition remains essential for Nigeria’s democratic development.
“I do not want a one-party state,” he said.
Sobowale concluded that Atiku Abubakar’s reconciliation efforts following the primaries demonstrate political maturity and could strengthen party unity, stressing that opposition parties must resolve internal disputes if they hope to present a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ojo Triumph
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