Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has declared that he will remain in the 2027 presidential contest, insisting that neither court decisions nor political pressure will make him abandon his ambition.
Atiku made the declaration in a statement released on Friday in Sokoto, titled, “Bola Cannot Use the Courts to Escape the People’s Verdict; We Are on the Ballot.”
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate maintained that Nigerians must have the freedom to elect their preferred leaders through a credible electoral process, warning against attempts to undermine their democratic rights.
He accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of using political influence and court processes to weaken opposition parties and create conditions for a one-party system.
His comments followed Thursday’s court ruling, which nullified the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC and decisions taken under the leadership.
Reacting to the development, Atiku insisted that the ruling would not end his presidential ambition or prevent him from participating in the 2027 election.
“Let me be clear to every Nigerian who has stood with us: I am in this race. I am not going anywhere. We will be on the ballot. No threat, blackmail or court manoeuvre will make me abandon you or the cause we share,” he said.
The former vice-president further accused the ruling party of employing different strategies to undermine opposition groups, including political intimidation, the spread of manufactured narratives and alleged attempts to manipulate the voters’ register.
He specifically raised concerns over the alleged use of artificial intelligence-generated photographs, fake names and fictitious identities in the electoral register.
Atiku also questioned why the administration would allegedly resort to such measures despite claiming to enjoy the support of 32 state governors and attracting politicians from opposition parties.
READ ALSO:
- 2027: I’m Not Leaving Presidential Race, Atiku Tells Tinubu Amid ADC Leadership Crisis
- Tinubu Takes Swipe At Peter Obi Over Anambra Erosion, Mocks Atiku’s Political Moves
- Veteran Actor Diewait Ikpechukwu Passes On
- Mohbad: Court-Supervised DNA Test Conducted On Late Singer’s Remains, Son Liam
- NAF Recovers Black Box Component Weeks After Ondo Crash Killed 25
He argued that the alleged actions were intended to discourage political competition and gradually push Nigeria towards a one-party system.
Turning to the economy, Atiku faulted Tinubu’s administration over the rising cost of living, blaming its policies for the financial difficulties confronting households and businesses.
He listed the removal of fuel subsidy without sufficient measures to cushion its impact, the depreciation of the naira, increasing food and petrol prices, as well as the closure of factories and small businesses among the challenges facing Nigerians.
On security, the ADC chieftain expressed concern over the continued activities of bandits and kidnappers, accusing the government of failing to adequately protect vulnerable communities.
He also lamented the increasing number of young Nigerians leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
Atiku urged Nigerians to remain committed to the democratic process, stressing that their votes remained an important tool for determining the country’s leadership and future.
“We will resist with all our strength every attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. Nigeria belongs to all its people. Our democracy must remain open to more than one party and more than one voice,” he said.
He challenged the ruling APC to demonstrate its popularity through a transparent electoral process, arguing that a government confident in its achievements should have no reason to avoid a free and fair contest.
The former vice-president added that his political campaign would continue to address the economic challenges facing Nigerians, particularly the rising cost of living and the need to make basic necessities more affordable.
“Let me say this plainly: Bola cannot use the courts to escape the judgment of Nigerians at the ballot box,” he concluded.