ABU DHABI, UAE — Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has confirmed he will contest Nigeria’s presidency in 2027, dismissing claims over the weekend that suggested he might step back from political ambition in favour of a broader national development role.
Speculation grew after Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, who represented Atiku at a political gathering in Lagos, was quoted as saying: “Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria; it’s not about being President. It’s about establishing a government that works for Nigerians. That’s why some of us are with him—not because he must be President at all costs.”
The event coincided with the defection of several high-profile figures to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), prompting speculation that Atiku’s political direction had shifted.
Atiku’s Clarification
Speaking from his holiday residence in the United Arab Emirates, Atiku told journalist and media scholar Dr. Tunde Olusunle that Olateju’s remarks did not represent him.
“I did not issue that statement. Whenever someone represents me at an event, we usually review and align on my position beforehand. In this case, there was no such engagement. Prof. Olateju was not speaking on my behalf,” Atiku said.
The former Vice President then reiterated his intention to run.
“I will run in 2027. Nigeria urgently needs to be rescued from the intensive care unit in which it currently lies. The poverty, pain, deceit, and massive corruption plaguing our nation are unacceptable. I am offering myself to lead the process of national recovery and reconstruction,” he declared.
Building Momentum Under ADC
Atiku also highlighted the coalition he is shaping under the ADC platform, describing it as a movement for Nigeria’s “political liberation.”
“We cannot expect immediate upsets in by-elections, but ADC is building a powerful mass movement that will surprise the world. We are determined to upstage the status quo and prove the doubters wrong,” he said.
Dr. Olusunle, who served as one of Atiku’s spokespersons during the 2023 election, confirmed that he had spoken directly with the former Vice President.
Political Implications
Atiku’s statement appears to end speculation about a possible retreat from frontline politics.
Instead, it signals a renewed drive to position himself as a leading opposition figure ahead of the 2027 polls.
His confirmation also comes at a time of heightened political realignment, with defections to the ADC indicating a shifting landscape as parties prepare for what could be another closely contested election.
