Nigerian politician and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed critics who suggest he should step aside and allow younger candidates to run for the presidency. Abubakar, who was the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized that his primary goal is to rescue the country from its current administration.
During a ceremony in Lagos State on Saturday, where leaders from the PDP and Labour Party joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Abubakar clarified his position. Represented by Professor Ola Olateju, he stated that he is not driven by a desperate desire to become president. Instead, his focus is on building a better Nigeria that its citizens can be proud of, regardless of their location.
Abubakar, a two-time PDP presidential candidate, has faced accusations of being overly ambitious in his presidential aspirations. However, he asserted, “It’s not about Atiku having to be president at all costs.” This statement underscores his commitment to the country’s welfare over personal ambition.
He also shed light on the nature of the African Democratic Congress, suggesting it should be viewed as a movement rather than a traditional political party. According to Abubakar, this movement is dedicated to changing the country’s governance for the better and positioning it for greatness.
The context of Abubakar’s statement comes at a time when Nigeria is navigating its political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. With various parties and candidates vying for power, the discussion around leadership, age, and the desire for change is prominent. Abubakar’s message, therefore, resonates with a segment of the population seeking a different trajectory for the country.
By framing his candidacy as part of a broader movement aimed at repositioning Nigeria, Abubakar appeals to those seeking systemic change and a departure from the status quo. The emphasis on collective movement rather than individual ambition reflects a strategic approach to garner support across different political affiliations and age groups.
As Nigeria moves towards its next electoral cycle, statements like Abubakar’s will be scrutinized for their implications on the country’s political future. The appeal for a better Nigeria, where governance is improved and citizens can take pride in their nation, taps into the aspirations of many Nigerians. Whether Abubakar’s message resonates widely enough to influence the election’s outcome remains to be seen, but it contributes to a nuanced discussion about the country’s future and the qualities desired in its next leader.
