Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has firmly rejected calls to withdraw from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential race, asserting his commitment to the party’s mission to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. In a statement released by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku accused the Tinubu administration of attempting to undermine opposition parties to establish a one-party state.
Atiku criticized the current administration for inflicting economic hardship and suppressing democratic freedoms, stating, “For nearly three years, Nigerians have endured one of the harshest periods in recent history, defined by punishing economic policies and shrinking democratic space under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He emphasized that the ADC represents a credible alternative, with leaders rallying to resist authoritarian tendencies. Atiku warned against external attempts to influence the party’s internal decisions, particularly regarding its presidential candidate selection. “Any call—overt or covert—for Atiku to step aside is a gift to authoritarian ambition and a betrayal of the Nigerian people,” he declared.
Amid speculation about a possible joint ticket with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and the recent entry of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi into the ADC, Atiku reaffirmed his dedication to the party’s objectives. He called on Nigerians to resist intimidation and support the ADC’s efforts to restore democratic governance.
