Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said he would not hesitate to drop his 2027 presidential ambition if a younger and more vibrant candidate emerges to fly the flag of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Atiku maintained that his political journey was never about personal ambition but about rescuing Nigeria from, in his words, “the grip of those who have held it hostage.”
He said:
“I’ll step aside if a younger, vibrant and acceptable candidate comes forward. This struggle has never been about me. It is about Nigeria and the urgent need to restore our country to the path of progress.”
Atiku explained that the ADC was conceived as an alternative platform after the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) suffered internal crises, which he alleged were worsened by the influence of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to him, the ADC had already established its national leadership and was now focusing on strengthening structures at the state and grassroots levels ahead of the 2027 elections.
He added:
“The PDP was weakened because some of its leaders were being used to frustrate genuine opposition. The ADC is building a fresh platform for Nigerians who desire change.”
On Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, the former Vice President criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of worsening poverty and hardship through “unplanned” policy choices.
Atiku specifically faulted the full removal of fuel subsidy in 2023, which he claimed plunged Nigerians into untold suffering.
“When I was Vice President, we planned subsidy removal in phases with proper consultations. Tinubu’s sudden removal without cushioning measures has pushed millions into poverty,” he said.
He also dismissed Tinubu’s Independence Day broadcast as “empty rhetoric,” arguing that it failed to reflect the harsh realities ordinary Nigerians face.
In a statement issued by his aide, Phrank Shuaibu, Atiku said:
“The yam may be plentiful, but if the pot is empty, the stomach still rumbles. Nigeria’s pot today is not only empty but cracked, and the people remain hungry.”
The former Vice President accused the government of celebrating phantom progress while schools remain in decay, hospitals lack basic facilities, and food prices soar beyond the reach of ordinary citizens.
On insecurity, Atiku noted that despite Tinubu’s claims of victory, Nigerians “still sleep with one eye open” as kidnappings and killings continue. He cited the killing of Arise TV journalist Somtochukwu during a robbery attack as a reminder that “no one is safe.”
Atiku stressed that Nigeria’s independence anniversaries should be moments of sober reflection rather than occasions for self-congratulation.
“Resilience is not endorsement. If this government is truly laying foundations, they should be seen in affordable food, working schools, reliable electricity and secured communities,” he said.
