Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has unequivocally announced his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, reaffirming his commitment to lead Nigeria out of its current crisis. Speaking through his spokesperson, Tunde Olusunle, Atiku criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he described as “unprecedented thievery” and poor governance that have plunged the nation into hardship.
Olusunle told ThisDay, “Nigeria needs to be decisively rescued from the intensive care unit it has been consigned to under the Bola Tinubu government. The deceit, loss of values, and lack of accountability must disturb every concerned patriot. Atiku will offer himself to lead the reclamation and reconstruction of our traumatised homeland.”
Contrary to speculation he might shy away from the race, Atiku stated his full intention to run. He is leading a coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which he believes will “shock the world” by challenging the entrenched political order. “ADC is spearheading a mass movement that will upstage the status quo and leave doubters dumbstruck,” Olusunle said.
Atiku’s renewed bid follows a period of internal debate, where some reported statements suggested he prioritised national transformation over the presidency. However, those comments were disowned as not accurately reflecting his views. Olusunle clarified, “Atiku’s plan is not about the presidency at all costs but about building a government that works for Nigerians.”
Reiterating his resolve, Atiku concluded, “I will run in 2027. The country’s degeneration, poverty, and anguish are unacceptable. Nigerians deserve leadership that can heal and rebuild the nation.”
