Speculation is mounting over whether former Vice President Atiku Abubakar will once again join Nigeria’s presidential race in 2027. But unlike some of his contemporaries, the Waziri Adamawa has remained cautious, carefully avoiding any definitive statement about his intentions.
While other leaders in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, such as Labour Party’s 2023 candidate Peter Obi and former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, have openly indicated interest in contesting, even pledging to serve only a single term under a North-South zoning arrangement, Atiku has remained non-committal. This posture has unsettled some coalition members, with groups like Obi’s Obidient Movement alleging that the alliance was engineered to pave the way for an Atiku presidency. The ADC leadership, however, has denied such claims, insisting that all aspirants will be treated equally in the race for its ticket.
The speculation intensified on Thursday after reports quoting Atiku’s BBC Hausa interview suggested he had declared his intention to support a younger candidate, effectively ruling himself out of the race. The interpretation caused a stir across political circles, with many reading it as a signal that Atiku might finally be stepping aside.
But a closer look at the interview revealed a more nuanced position. Asked directly whether he would contest in 2027, Atiku responded that it was “not yet time” to make such a declaration.
It’s not yet time. When the time comes, I will decide. What we are doing is for the good of the nation,” he
Speculation is mounting over whether former Vice President Atiku Abubakar will once again join Nigeria’s presidential race in 2027. But unlike some of his contemporaries, the Waziri Adamawa has remained cautious, carefully avoiding any definitive statement about his intentions.
While other leaders in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, such as Labour Party’s 2023 candidate Peter Obi and former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, have openly indicated interest in contesting, even pledging to serve only a single term under a North-South zoning arrangement, Atiku has remained non-committal. This posture has unsettled some coalition members, with groups like Obi’s Obidient Movement alleging that the alliance was engineered to pave the way for an Atiku presidency. The ADC leadership, however, has denied such claims, insisting that all aspirants will be treated equally in the race for its ticket.
The speculation intensified on Thursday after reports quoting Atiku’s BBC Hausa interview suggested he had declared his intention to support a younger candidate, effectively ruling himself out of the race. The interpretation caused a stir across political circles, with many reading it as a signal that Atiku might finally be stepping aside.
“If a younger candidate defeats me, I will concede and wholeheartedly support and guide him. Our political party is gathering momentum. Our main focus is to give pride of place to youths and women,” he added.
Atiku further urged young Nigerians to participate actively in politics, stressing that the coalition is prioritising youth and women in its structure.
However, as the reports gained traction on social media with the slant that Atiku had decided to back a younger candidate, his media office issued a rebuttal. His spokesman, Paul Ibe, said the BBC Hausa interview had been taken out of context and misrepresented.
It has become necessary to clarify certain misrepresentations arising from the reportage of an interview granted by His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, to the BBC Hausa Service by some sections of the media,” Ibe said.
“After a thorough review of both the video and transcripts – in the original Hausa and the English translation – it is evident that at no point did the former Vice President expressly state, suggest, or imply that he intends to step down for anyone.”
Ibe stressed that Atiku only made the point that young people and other aspirants are free to contest, and that if a younger candidate emerged through competitive primaries, Atiku would respect the outcome and support such a candidate.
While interpretative journalism is legitimate, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable,” Ibe added. “The insinuations attributed to the Waziri Adamawa from his BBC Hausa interview are inaccurate and do not reflect what he actually said.”
In a subsequent interview with Trust TV, Ibe went further, explaining that Atiku is deliberately holding back from an early declaration because his focus is on building a viable political platform.
“Atiku Abubakar will not fall for that bait,” he said. “The real work now is putting structures in place so that when the tsunami begins, the platform will be ready to carry everyone who will align and realign.”
According to him, Atiku has already pitched his tent firmly with the ADC coalition, attending meetings alongside Peter Obi and former Kaduna State governor Nasir el-Rufai.
“His resignation from the PDP and alignment with the ADC are irreversible. He has no reservations. He is in full support with his body, soul, and resources,” Ibe said.
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