Daniel Bwala, special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on policy communication, says former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar should accept that presidency may not be his destiny.

Bwala spoke on Monday during an interview on TVC, where he addressed issues surrounding political succession and the future of opposition politics in the country.

He asked Abubakar to embrace reality and collaborate with President Tinubu in building the country.

“If I have the opportunity to meet him face to face, what I will tell him is just this: ‘Your Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, you have to believe in destiny,’” Bwala said.

“God gives power to whomsoever He chooses. And it seems from the facts on the ground that it may not have been the will of God for you to govern Nigeria.”

He advised the former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to align himself with Tinubu’s administration to leave a lasting legacy, “even if it is realised through another person”.

“There are many other ways you can contribute. Since you have been a friend to President Bola Tinubu for many years, come together and bring your contribution towards the Nigeria that both of you wanted to create for the Nigerian people,” he said.

“Your legacy will be that in your political dying days, you will be able to achieve some of your dreams, albeit through your friend.

“But if he insists that he wants to run and he wants to become the president, as we have already seen it playing out, his political ending might not be as palatable as he’s thinking.

“Right now, from his political family, he has lost substantial people, probably 60 to 70 percent.”

Bwala added that younger politicians who once followed Abubakar are now determined to seek power in their own right and have shown no signs of retreating.

The presidential aide’s remarks come amid a gale of defections from opposition parties to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

There are speculations that some governors of the opposition parties may soon join the APC.

In March, Abubakar said he was unsure about contesting the 2027 presidency, adding that there must be a viable platform.

By Nahum Sule, Jalingo

In the vibrant political landscape of Taraba State, one name shines brighter than most—Chief David Sabo Kente, a towering figure whose philanthropy, leadership, and unwavering commitment to progress have positioned him as the frontrunner for the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial ticket and a likely victor in the 2027 Taraba State gubernatorial election.

A revered politician, philanthropist, and chieftain of the APC, Chief Kente’s recent engagement with journalists in Abuja on 25th April 2025 has further solidified his standing as the people’s choice, with his transformative vision for Taraba resonating across communities and galvanizing widespread support.

Chief Kente’s love for Taraba is not merely rhetorical but a deeply rooted passion that manifests in his every action. Speaking with poise and conviction in Abuja, he declared, “I love Taraba with all my heart, and every time I engage with its people, I am focused on construction—building not just structures but also opportunities for our communities.”

These words encapsulate the essence of a leader whose life’s work has been dedicated to uplifting the lives of Taraba’s citizens, fostering unity, and laying the foundation for a prosperous future. His strategic vision, coupled with a proven track record of impactful initiatives, underscores his readiness to lead Taraba to unprecedented heights.

The case for Chief Kente’s gubernatorial candidacy is bolstered by his remarkable contributions to Taraba’s development, which have earned him accolades and the trust of the masses.

Among his most notable achievements is the donation of 220 hectares of land, valued at over N1 billion, to the Taraba State government for the construction of a state-of-the-art General Hospital in Wukari This landmark project, set to bear his name, is poised to revolutionize healthcare delivery in the region, providing accessible and quality medical services to thousands. This singular act of generosity is a testament to Kente’s foresight and commitment to addressing the pressing needs of Taraba’s people, further cementing his reputation as a leader who delivers on prom

Through the DSK Foundation, Chief Kente has woven a tapestry of hope and empowerment across Taraba. His initiatives have touched countless lives, from providing scholarships to indigent students to supporting orphanages and empowering vulnerable communities. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by prestigious honours such as the “Ambassador of Peace and Societal Development” and an honorary doctorate from Kwararafa University, Wukari. Such recognitions reflect the profound impact of his work and the deep respect he commands among academics, community leaders, and ordinary citizens alike. His philanthropy, far from being a mere gesture, is a deliberate strategy to build human capital and create sustainable opportunities, qualities that make him an ideal candidate for the governorship.

As a former gubernatorial aspirant, Chief Kente brings to the table a wealth of political experience and an intimate understanding of Taraba’s challenges and opportunities. His engagement with journalists in Abuja was a masterstroke, signalling his intent to build unstoppable momentum ahead of the 2027 election. With eloquence and clarity, he articulated a roadmap for Taraba’s transformation, emphasizing collaborative efforts to drive infrastructural development, economic growth, and social cohesion. His ability to connect with diverse audiences—journalists, political stakeholders, and grassroots communities—underscores his versatility and broad appeal, key ingredients for securing the APC ticket, and ultimately winning the governorship.

Chief Kente’s leadership style is defined by inclusivity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His call for unity and collective action resonates deeply in a state yearning for purposeful governance. Political analysts and party faithful within the APC view him as the candidate best positioned to unify the party and galvanize its base, given his impeccable credentials and grassroots connections. His stature as a respected figure in Taraba politics, combined with his philanthropic legacy, makes him a formidable contender, with many predicting that the APC gubernatorial ticket is his to lose.

The groundswell of support from community leaders, youth groups, and women’s organizations further bolsters his chances, as Tarabans see in him a leader who embodies their aspirations.

Beyond his tangible achievements, Chief Kente’s intangible qualities—humility, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to service—set him apart as a leader of exceptional calibre. His ability to inspire hope and instil confidence in Taraba’s future is a rare gift, one that has endeared him to the electorate. As he engages with stakeholders across the state and beyond, his message of transformation and progress continues to gain traction, positioning him as the candidate to beat in 2027. The APC, known for its strategic selection of candidates, is likely to recognize Kente’s unparalleled qualifications and entrust him with the party’s ticket, confident in his ability to deliver victory and transformative governance

Chief Kente’s journey is a testament to the power of vision and dedication. From his early days as a philanthropist to his current status as a political juggernaut, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to Taraba’s progress. His legacy, already etched in the annals of Taraba’s history, is poised to reach new heights as he prepares to lead the state into a new era of prosperity. With his blend of experience, compassion, and strategic acumen, Chief David Sabo Kente is not just a candidate for 2027—he is Taraba’s beacon of hope, destined to secure the APC gubernatorial ticket and lead the state to a triumphant future.