Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has vowed that no aspirant in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential race will step down ahead of the 2027 general elections, dismissing reports that he might withdraw to favour a southern candidate.
In a statement released on Tuesday through his media aide, Paul Ibe, Abubakar accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to intimidate opposition parties and undermine the democratic process.
He stressed that all qualified aspirants would have the opportunity to participate freely in the ADC’s selection exercise.
“The ADC is on a national rescue mission. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alongside other committed patriots, is central to this effort,” the statement read. “Any call—overt or covert—for Atiku to ‘step aside’ is a gift to authoritarian ambition and a betrayal of the Nigerian people.”
Abubakar said the ADC remains committed to an open, transparent, and competitive process, welcoming all genuine opposition figures. “Inclusiveness—not coercion—is the soul of democracy,” he added.
Tinubu Should Step Aside, Says Atiku
The former vice president took aim at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying his administration has become a “national liability.”
He argued that if anyone should step down, it should be the president, citing the APC government’s record on economic hardship, shrinking democratic space, and weakening opposition parties.
“True to form, this administration has inflicted widespread hardship and pursued a calculated effort to eliminate political alternatives. The objective is clear: a creeping, de facto one-party state,” he said.
“Perhaps the Tinubu administration’s most disturbing ‘achievement’ has been the systematic weakening of opposition parties, leaving the APC standing alone by default, not by merit.”
Abubakar further warned that external interference in the ADC’s affairs would not be tolerated. “Disruptors and infiltrators must allow the party to do this essential work without interference,” he said.
“No amount of intimidation, intrigue, or sabotage will derail this rescue mission. Nigeria will not surrender its democracy without a fight.”.
‘
‘Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
Leave a comment