By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
Nigerians have already started speculating on social media that the 2023 presidency will come down to a contest between the former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, and a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu.
Atiku’s son, Adamu, had said that his father would contest for the presidency in 2023.
“In 2023, my father will be aspiring to the number one office in the land because he has been an astute, strategic, master politician for almost four decades,” he said.
Tinubu has not expressly stated that he would be contesting for the office in 2023. But those close to him have been forceful in endorsing him, including the Lagos state chapter of the APC.
The permutation by Nigerians on social media is that Atiku may likely fly the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), while Tinubu runs on the platform of the APC.
A Twitter poll by @BolanleCole on who Nigerians prefer as their choice of President in 2023, attracted 1,461 voters on the first day. Of that number, 76.2 per cent chose Atiku, while 23.8 per cent preferred Tinubu.
Among the supporters of Atiku is @AnthonyEhilebo who said that: “No matter what happens Nigeria will want an Atiku Plus Peter Obi. For me, it is a combination if allowed to function optimally can re-position Nigeria for greatness. I have been in close proximity to these guys. They have what it takes,” he said.
Another comment from @Henry4sam said: “I voted for them (Atiku and Peter Obi) in 2019. Will do again n 2023 if they are chosen. Am not voting for them because they are spotless and would fix all our problems (God bless them if they do). I’ll vote for them because I feel they are more humane and may not allow certain illegality. Hope I’m right,” he tweeted.
For those who want Tinubu as president, they cite his political rise as example of his ability to lead Nigeria.
@Lordfisher2 said: “Who is afraid of Tinubu? The only 1999 Governor who has continued to remain relevant in National politics,” he said.
@Lollylarry1 argued: “Personally, I am not a fan of Tinubu, but if he’s ready to contest for the presidential seat in 2023, I’ll Campaign and vote for him. This is because i have discovered that anyone ‘they’ (Twitter users) hate is doing something good for this country,” he said.