Atiku Abubakar Faces Calls for Democratic Reform and Past Criticism Ahead of 2027 Campaign

Nigeria’s first astronaut, Chief Owolabi Salis, met former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to launch a series of consultations with senior political figures, including President Bola Tinubu and former heads of state, aimed at overhauling the country’s democratic processes. Salis warned that electoral malpractice, weak institutions and elite self‑interest have hindered Nigeria’s development, citing widening gaps in health care, infrastructure and income. He urged comprehensive electoral reforms and highlighted his personal contributions to vulnerable citizens.

Separately, a 2023 interview resurfaced in which actor‑turned‑politician Kenneth Okonkwo sharply attacked Atiku, accusing him of using special‑purpose vehicles for illicit consultancy fees and calling for his imprisonment. The clip gained renewed attention after Atiku appointed Okonkwo as his official spokesperson for the 2027 presidential bid, prompting fresh debate over the former vice president’s past statements and current political strategy.