Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s path to becoming the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential flagbearer in 2027 appears to be narrowing, as his home state of Adamawa has thrown its support behind Umar Damagun, the embattled acting national chairman of the party.

Despite being the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku has openly opposed the appointment of another North-East candidate to the party’s national chairmanship. However, his efforts have been met with resistance as key figures in the region, including the Adamawa State chapter of the PDP, have rallied behind Damagun.

During a press briefing in Yola on Wednesday, Adamawa State PDP chairman Abubakar Shehu expressed full support for Damagun, aligning with Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and other PDP governors who have endorsed Damagun to complete the tenure of ousted chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu. Shehu cited the party’s constitution, specifically Section 47(6), which mandates that any vacancy in the party’s leadership must be filled by someone from the same region as the outgoing officer. With Ayu hailing from the Northeast, Damagun, currently the deputy national chairman for the northern zone, is considered the rightful successor.

“The former national chairman is from the Northeast, and therefore, Sen. Umar Ilya Damagun is the most qualified candidate to serve out the remainder of the term,” Shehu stated.

This development is seen as a significant setback for Atiku, as it indicates dwindling support within his own political base. Sources close to the party suggest that Governor Nyesom Wike and his allies are maneuvering to curb Atiku’s influence ahead of the 2027 election.