Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2023 elections, has officially declared his intention to run for the presidency of Nigeria once again in 2027.
This announcement was made through Tunde Olusunle, a longtime associate and spokesperson for Atiku during the recent elections. Atiku emphasized his dedication to spearheading efforts aimed at rescuing Nigeria from what he termed a deepening national crisis.
His declaration comes in the wake of speculation regarding his potential withdrawal from the race, particularly following comments from Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, which suggested that Atiku was now more focused on contributing to Nigeria’s progress outside of the presidential sphere.
However, Atiku, speaking from his vacation residence in the United Arab Emirates, quickly refuted Olateju’s assertions, labeling them as unauthorized.
“When representatives speak on my behalf at events, they convey my perspectives on various issues. In this instance, there was no dialogue with me to clarify my views. Prof. Olateju does not represent my stance,” Atiku clarified.
The former Vice President reaffirmed his commitment to his presidential aspirations.
“I will run in 2027. Nigeria must be decisively rescued from the dire situation it currently faces. The deterioration in our nation, alongside pervasive poverty and suffering, is intolerable,” he stated.
Atiku also aimed to reassure his supporters and political allies about the strength of the opposition coalition, particularly with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), asserting that they would surprise detractors in the upcoming elections.
“The accompanying deceit, erosion of values, rampant theft, and the utter lack of accountability should alarm every concerned citizen. I am prepared to lead the reclamation and rebuilding of our beleaguered nation,” he was quoted as saying by Olusunle after their discussion.
He criticized the “unprecedented theft” occurring under the current All Progressives Congress (APC) government, vowing that the opposition would rally Nigerians to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 elections.
“The deterioration… is unacceptable. Our coalition will astonish the world in the 2027 presidential election, despite the APC’s efforts to undermine it,” Atiku concluded.
