Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria, has declared his willingness to support whoever emerges as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate in the 2026 primaries for the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a ceremony in Lagos State welcoming new defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) into the ADC coalition, Atiku emphasized that the party alone would determine its candidate through free and fair contests.
Represented by Prof. Ola Olateju, Atiku assured that the ADC is committed to providing a level playing field for all aspirants. He stressed that the party will not impose any candidate on its members, and all aspirants will be expected to contest on equal terms. Atiku highlighted that the person who wins the party’s ticket would represent the collective voice and aspirations of Nigerians in the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku’s announcement comes amid ongoing developments within the ADC coalition, which includes prominent politicians such as former governors Chibuike Amaechi and Peter Obi, both front-runners for the ADC presidential ticket alongside Atiku himself.
Addressing critics who suggest he is desperate to become president, Atiku clarified that his ambition is not personal but rooted in the desire to see a better, more prosperous Nigeria. He described the ADC not just as a political party but as a movement aiming to reposition the country for growth and improved governance.
The event welcomed significant defections from the PDP and LP, signaling a growing coalition opposition to the current administration. Key ADC leaders including National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Kolawole Ogunwale, and State ADC Chairman George Ashiru were present to receive the new members. Aregbesola emphasized the urgency of rescuing Nigeria from its prevailing challenges through the emergence of a viable political alternative.
Atiku's position underscores a commitment to unity within the ADC coalition and readiness to rally behind the duly elected candidate, reinforcing a collective approach to addressing Nigeria's political future and governance challenges ahead of the 2027 elections.