Speculation is growing over whether former Vice President Atiku Abubakar will contest Nigeria’s presidential election in 2027. Unlike some of his contemporaries, the Waziri Adamawa has remained cautious, avoiding any definitive statement about his political intentions.
While other leaders in the African Democratic Congress ADC coalition, including Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, have openly expressed interest in contesting even committing to serve a single term under a North South zoning arrangement, Atiku has stayed non-committal. This stance has unsettled some coalition members, with groups like Obi’s Obidient Movement alleging that the alliance was designed to clear the path for an Atiku presidency. The ADC leadership, however, has dismissed such claims, stressing that all aspirants will have equal opportunity for the party’s ticket.
The speculation intensified after reports citing Atiku’s BBC Hausa interview suggested he had declared his support for a younger candidate, effectively ruling himself out. The interpretation caused a stir in political circles, with many reading it as a sign that Atiku might step aside.
A closer review of the interview, however, revealed a more nuanced position. When asked directly whether he would contest in 2027, Atiku responded: “It’s not yet time. When the time comes, I will decide. What we are doing is for the good of the nation. 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 also urged young Nigerians to participate actively in politics, emphasizing that the coalition is prioritizing youth and women in its structure.
Following the widespread misinterpretation on social media, Atiku’s media aide moved to clarify the matter. Paul Ibe said the BBC Hausa interview had been taken out of context. “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 explained.
He added that Atiku only highlighted that young people and other aspirants are free to contest, and that he would respect the outcome of competitive primaries. “While interpretative journalism is legitimate, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable,” Ibe said.
In a follow-up interview with Trust TV, Ibe stressed that Atiku is deliberately holding back from an early declaration to focus on building a viable political platform ahead of 2027.
