By Muhammad Mamman
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, has declared that his ambition lies not in securing Nigeria’s presidency but in forging a stronger, more prosperous nation. Speaking at a high-profile defection ceremony to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos on Saturday, Abubakar, represented by Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, underscored his commitment to transformative governance over personal gain.
The event saw prominent figures from the PDP and Labour Party, including PDP Board of Trustees member Dr Abimbola Ogunkelu, former Lagos PDP chairmen Chief Muritala Ashorobi and Retired Capt. Tunji Shelle, and PDP Vice Chairman (Lagos Central) Mr Tai Benedict, formally join the ADC. They were warmly welcomed by ADC national leaders, including National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Sen. Kolawole Ogunwale, and Lagos State ADC Chairman Mr George Ashiru.
Abubakar, who recently left the PDP alongside other opposition heavyweights to join the ADC, described the party as a movement for national renewal rather than a mere political platform. “Atiku Abubakar’s vision is a better Nigeria,” Prof. Olateju relayed on his behalf. “This isn’t about him becoming president at all costs. It’s about building a government that delivers security, prosperity, and opportunity for all Nigerians. The ADC represents a movement for a new beginning, a journey to reposition our country for greatness.”
Addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including the fallout from fuel subsidy removal and soaring inflation, Abubakar insisted that effective leadership could unlock a brighter future. “A better Nigeria is within reach,” he said through his representative. “We are united in our resolve to see Nigeria deliver on its promise to its people.”
On the question of the ADC’s presidential candidate for 2027, Abubakar emphasised a democratic approach. “The choice lies with the people,” he said. “We will rally behind whoever emerges through a free and fair process. This is about Nigeria’s collective aspirations, not any individual’s ambition.”
