Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, a presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has declared his readiness to support whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer in the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking in an interview with DW Hausa, Atiku dismissed claims that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could undermine the ADC, noting that the party continues to attract members across the country.
He was responding to INEC’s announcement that it would cease communication with the party’s leadership and would not monitor the national convention scheduled for April 14.
The electoral body cited a court ruling as the basis for its decision, a move the ADC has rejected, accusing INEC of misinterpreting the judgment.
Atiku alleged that vested interests were behind the current challenges facing the party, saying its growing popularity has made it a target.
On the party’s presidential ticket, he stated: “We will support and endorse whoever emerges as the flag bearer. How many are we contesting—three or four? In the PDP, more than ten of us contested.”
He also described the ADC as youth- and women-friendly, emphasizing its commitment to inclusion. “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. Our role is to create opportunities and hand them over to youths and women,” he said.
Asked if he could support a youth candidate for the presidency, Atiku said: “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?”
The former vice president expressed confidence that Nigerians are ready for change, citing worsening economic conditions and insecurity.
“We are confident that Nigerians are yearning for change. They are being pushed to the wall and are prepared to do even more than they did in previous elections,” he said.
Atiku linked rising insecurity, especially in northern states, to youth unemployment and poor access to education.
“Insecurity is more severe in the northern states, largely due to youth unemployment and lack of access to education. Governments have not ensured 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.”
