Atiku Abubakar’s media aide, Paul Ibe, has asserted that the former vice president is unfazed by the political ambitions of rivals, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and Peter Obi.
In an interview with Sunday PUNCH, Ibe addressed rumors suggesting that Atiku had halted plans to formally register as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid speculations of discussions between the party and Jonathan. He clarified that Atiku’s registration process is ongoing and has not been suspended.
“Nothing has changed; we don’t want to give mischief-makers an opportunity. Atiku Abubakar registered as a member of the ADC in Jada ward of Jada Local Government Area, Adamawa State, and the process is still on,” Ibe stated.
Ibe emphasized that Atiku is a staunch democrat who welcomes competition and will not be intimidated by anyone’s decision to run for president.
“Atiku is a democrat, and he cannot be threatened by anyone’s ambition. The beauty of democracy is that the minority will have its say, and then the majority will have its way. There will always be choices,” he said.
He contrasted Atiku’s approach with that of President Bola Tinubu, alleging that Tinubu is attempting to establish a one-party state. “Unlike what Tinubu is currently doing, using the instruments of state to lead everybody into a one-party dictatorship, Atiku will not come from a place where he feels that what Tinubu and the APC are doing is undemocratic,” Ibe added.
Ibe reiterated that Atiku’s primary goal is to collaborate with other Nigerians of goodwill to offer a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“He (Atiku) will work with other men and women of goodwill to provide Nigerians with an alternative to the APC and Tinubu. He will not be threatened or worried by anyone entering the race, as all of this is just speculation,” Ibe concluded.
“Let those who feel they have something to offer join the race. The more, the merrier; this is democracy at work, allowing Nigerians to make informed decisions,” he said.
