Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has clarified his stance on the upcoming 2027 presidential election, denying reports that he intends to step down for another candidate. According to a statement released by his spokesman, Paul Ibe, certain media outlets misrepresented an interview Atiku granted to the BBC Hausa Service.
After reviewing the interview’s video and transcripts in both Hausa and English, Ibe stated that Atiku never expressed, suggested, or implied a willingness to step down for anyone. Instead, Atiku emphasized that young people and other prospective presidential aspirants are free to participate in the election. He also noted that if a young candidate emerges through a competitive primary, he would readily offer his support.
The clarification comes as Atiku prepares to run for the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform. In July, he formally resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) due to irreconcilable differences, citing the party’s current trajectory as diverging from its foundational principles. Atiku previously served as Vice President under ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007 and was the PDP’s presidential candidate in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
Atiku’s decision to join the ADC has significant implications for the upcoming election, as the party has become a rallying point for opposition heavyweights seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). With his extensive political experience and influence, Atiku’s candidacy is likely to be a major factor in the 2027 presidential election. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how Atiku’s candidacy will shape the political landscape and whether he will emerge as a leading contender for the presidency.
