2027: I’ll support whoever emerges as ADC presidential candidate – Atiku

Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said he will back whoever emerges as the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

Speaking during an interview with DW Hausa posted on Saturday, Atiku stated that he remains committed to party unity and would support the eventual candidate.

He said, “We will support and endorse whoever emerges as the flag bearer. How many are we (presidential aspirants), three or four? In the PDP, more than ten of us contested.”

He highlighted what he described as the ADC’s growing appeal among young people, noting that the party has created space for youth and women’s participation in politics.

“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. We have always said our party belongs to the youth and women. Our role is to create the opportunity and hand it over to them,” he said.

When asked whether he would support a young presidential candidate if the party presents one, Atiku responded in the affirmative.

“Yes, why not?” he said.

Atiku also dismissed concerns that the Independent National Electoral Commission could weaken the ADC following the delisting of the David Mark-led faction, insisting that the party continues to gain traction across the country.

He alleged that powerful interests were responsible for the challenges facing the ADC, attributing the situation to the party’s rising popularity.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Atiku added, “Allah has done everything for me. I have brought my sons and grandchildren home. What will be their future and that of their children?”

He expressed confidence that Nigerians are increasingly demanding change, citing the current economic and security challenges facing the country.

“We are confident that Nigerians are yearning for change. They are ready for it. They are being pushed to the wall and are prepared to do even more than they did in the previous elections,” he said.

Atiku linked the worsening insecurity in the country, particularly in northern Nigeria, to youth unemployment and inadequate access to education.

“Insecurity is more severe in the northern states, largely due to youth unemployment and lack of access to education. When you go round the region, you see that education is not receiving the attention it deserves. It has been relegated.

“Governments have not ensured that 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.

ADVERTISEMENT

The former Vice President also accused the government of failing to tackle corruption effectively.

“There is also embezzlement on the part of the government, and corruption is rampant. The government has turned a blind eye because it is involved,” he said.