Atiku Abubakar Expresses Support for ADC’s Future Presidential Candidate
Chuks Okocha of Abuja
Atiku Abubakar, former vice president and leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has announced his commitment to support the party’s chosen candidate for the 2027 presidential election. He refuted claims that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) poses a threat to the ADC, emphasizing that the party continues to draw new members nationwide.
On Wednesday, INEC revealed that it would discontinue all communications with the ADC leadership and would refrain from overseeing the party’s national convention, scheduled for April 14. This decision stemmed from a court ruling, which the ADC has contested, arguing that INEC misinterpreted the legal verdict.
Atiku reaffirmed his intention to proceed with the planned convention and other party-related activities. In an interview with DW Hausa, he suggested that certain vested interests might be influencing the current turmoil within the party. He asserted that the rising popularity of the ADC has made it a target for such factions.
The former vice president also noted his unwavering support for whoever emerges as the ADC’s presidential candidate. “We will back our flag bearer wholeheartedly. In our party, we have a few candidates compared to the PDP, which boasts over ten,” he stated. He highlighted the ADC’s dedication to inclusivity, especially regarding youth and women, reiterating that the party is designed to be youth-friendly.
Atiku elaborated on the significance of empowering young people within the party, mentioning that many candidates for various elected positions, including state legislatures and Congress, are relatively young. “Our objective is to create opportunities for youth and women,” he said, reinforcing the party’s commitment to this demographic.
When asked if the ADC would back a youth-led presidential candidate, Atiku responded positively, acknowledging that such a scenario is indeed possible. He expressed optimism about the readiness of Nigerians for change, particularly in light of the country’s worsening economic and security conditions. “Nigerians are eager for change; they are feeling cornered and are more determined to act than in past elections,” he noted.
Atiku attributed the surge in insecurity, especially in northern regions, to youth unemployment and inadequate educational opportunities. “The alarming decline in security in these states is largely due to a lack of job prospects and insufficient access to education. Our observations indicate that education is receiving very little attention,” he commented.
He criticized the government’s failure to ensure children’s school enrollment and underscored the dire job market upon graduation. “This is an unprecedented situation in Nigeria,” Atiku stated. He also pointed a finger at governmental corruption, claiming it is tolerated and often involves those in power. “There is rampant embezzlement, and the government turns a blind eye because they are complicit,” he concluded.
