Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declined to confirm if he will vie for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027, revealing instead his focus on strengthening the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a new opposition party.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) 2023 presidential candidate, said, “This is something for later; what we are concentrating on now is ensuring that the new party gains wide acceptance.”
At 78 years old, Atiku has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics for almost four decades. He reflected on his recent departure from the PDP, a move he described as necessary after alleging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had infiltrated the opposition. He dismissed allegations of political double-dealing, emphasising, “No, I am not known for that. If I say this is the way, that is the way I will go.”
While some of his former allies chose to maintain ties with the PDP, Atiku remains committed to the ADC, which he says will prioritise the inclusion of youth and women. “In this new party we have joined, our priority is the youth and women,” he stated.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Atiku signalled openness to stepping aside for younger candidates, affirming,
“If I contest and a young candidate defeats me, then I will accept it.”
