Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said that no presidential aspirant will be compelled to step down within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the party remains committed to internal democracy and a transparent selection process.

Atiku made the statement while addressing concerns over speculation that some aspirants might be pressured to withdraw in favour of a consensus candidate ahead of the party’s presidential primary. He stressed that the ADC would allow all qualified aspirants to test their popularity through a credible and competitive process.

According to him, the party’s leadership is focused on building a strong democratic culture that gives members equal opportunity, noting that consensus, if it emerges, must be voluntary and not imposed.

Atiku added that the ADC is positioning itself as a credible alternative ahead of future elections, emphasising that openness and fairness in its internal processes are essential to winning public trust and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.