2027: Atiku slams Tinubu, says no presidential aspirant’ll step down in ADC

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has insisted that no presidential aspirant within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will be compelled to withdraw from the race ahead of the 2027 general election.

Atiku declared that the ADC is committed to a transparent and democratic process in selecting its presidential candidate.

The former vice president made this known in a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Ibe, on Tuesday, January 6, 2025.

Atiku also lashed out at President Bola Tinubu, saying Nigerians has, for nearly three years, faced severe economic hardship and a shrinking democratic space under his administration.

He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of deliberately weakening opposition parties in order to impose what he described as a de facto one-party system.

“When the time comes, all qualified aspirants will present themselves freely. No one is stepping down. If anyone should step aside, it is President Tinubu—whose leadership has become a national liability,” Atiku stated.

He alleged that individuals aligned with the Presidency were now attempting to interfere in the internal affairs of the ADC, particularly on the issue of its presidential ticket, with the aim of destabilising the party from outside.

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He, however, reaffirmed that the ADC would not bow to intimidation, blackmail, or external pressure, stressing that the party remained focused on strengthening its structures at the ward, local government and state levels nationwide.

Atiku added: “The ADC is on a national rescue mission.

“The party remains open and welcoming to all genuine opposition figures. This inclusiveness—not coercion—is the soul of democracy.”

The former president further referenced the recent declaration of ADC membership by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Enugu, describing the reaction from some government officials as evidence of fear within the ruling party.

Atiku said: “It triggered open boasts by a serving minister and presidential aides about plans to undermine the party. Their fear is evident.

“Let there be no ambiguity: the ADC is determined to end the misfortune imposed by the Tinubu-led APC. No amount of intimidation, intrigue, or sabotage will derail this rescue mission.”

The Star