The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has urged Peter Obi to reject a proposed joint ticket with former Vice president Atiku Abubakar, describing the latter as an emblem of the old political order whose career is marked by allegations of corruption and self-serving political maneuvering.
The group, in a statement signed by it’s National Coordinator, Israel Uwejeyan argued that accepting such a proposal would be a betrayal of the ideals that endeared Obi to millions of hopeful Nigerians, particularly the youth who rallied behind him in the 2023 elections.
The NDYC emphasised that the Nigerian youth demand leaders who exemplify honesty, accountability, and a commitment to progressive change, and that Atiku’s political history does not resonate with the new generation determined to break free from failed leadership.
The group warned that aligning with Atiku would erode Obi’s credibility and compromise the Labour Party’s commitment to offering an alternative to the status quo.
The group noted that the future of Nigeria depends on the choices made today, and leaders are expected to prioritize the will of the people above political expediency.
The statement reads: “We urge Mr. Peter Obi to carefully consider the grave implications of aligning with such a political proposal. The youth of Nigeria, particularly from the South-South region, overwhelmingly rallied behind Mr. Obi during the 2023 elections, driven by his vision for a new Nigeria rooted in integrity, transparency, and genuine progress.
“To accept a partnership with Mr. Atiku, an emblem of the old political order whose career is marked by allegations of corruption and self-serving political maneuvering would be a betrayal of the very ideals that endeared Mr. Obi to millions of hopeful Nigerians.
“The Nigerian youth are no longer willing to tolerate political decisions driven by expediency and compromise. We demand leaders who exemplify honesty, accountability, and a commitment to progressive change. Atiku Abubakar’s political history, spanning decades since 1999, is synonymous with the entrenched political class that has repeatedly failed the nation.
“His ambition, cloaked in the guise of political experience, does not resonate with the new generation that is determined to break free from the shackles of failed leadership. Aligning with him would not only erode Mr. Obi’s credibility but would also compromise the Labour Party’s commitment to offering an alternative to the status quo.”
