Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, a presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has affirmed his willingness to support whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer in the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku also dismissed concerns that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could undermine the ADC, noting that the party continues to attract members across the country.
INEC had on Wednesday announced it would halt further communication with the party’s leadership and would not monitor its national convention scheduled for April 14, citing a court ruling. However, the ADC rejected the decision, accusing the commission of misinterpreting the judgment and insisting it would proceed with its planned convention and activities.
Speaking in an interview with DW Hausa, Atiku alleged that vested interests were behind the party’s challenges, attributing the situation to its growing popularity.
On the issue of the party’s presidential ticket, he reiterated his commitment to party unity.
“We will support and endorse whoever emerges as the flag bearer. How many are we (presidential aspirants), three or four? In the PDP, more than ten of us contested,” he said.
The former Vice-President described the ADC as youth-driven, emphasising its commitment to inclusivity for young people and women.
“The youths have taken over the party. Most of those seeking elective positions, from councillor to state assembly, national assembly and House of Representatives, are young people. We have always said our party belongs to youths and women. Our role is to create the opportunity and hand it over to them,” he said.
When asked if he would support a youthful presidential candidate, Atiku responded affirmatively: “Yes, why not.
“Allah has done everything for me. I have brought my sons and grandchildren home. What will be their future and that of their children?” he added.
He expressed confidence that Nigerians are ready for change, citing worsening economic and security conditions.
“We are confident that Nigerians are yearning for change. They are ready for it. They are being pushed to the wall and are prepared to do even more than they did in the previous elections,” he said.
Atiku linked rising insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, to youth unemployment and limited access to education.
“Insecurity is more severe in the northern states, largely due to youth unemployment and lack of access to education. When you go round the region, you see that education is not receiving the attention it deserves. It has been relegated.
“Governments have not ensured that children enrol in school, and even when they graduate, there are no jobs or business opportunities. I have never witnessed a period like this in Nigeria,” he said.
He further accused the government of tolerating corruption.
“There is also embezzlement on the part of government and corruption is rampant. The government has turned a blind eye because it is involved,” he alleged.
