I’m not desperate to be president – Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar says his priority is a better Nigeria, not personal ambition to become president.

Speaking at an affirmation ceremony for new defectors into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Saturday in Lagos, Atiku, who was represented by Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Owo, stressed that his political movement is focused on good governance and national development.

“Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria. It’s not about him being president at all costs. What matters is having a government that delivers for Nigerians,” Olateju said on his behalf.

Atiku, who recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alongside other opposition figures to join the ADC, described the party as “a movement of Nigerians for a better Nigeria,” not just another political platform.

He said the ADC seeks to reposition the country and address pressing issues such as inflation and hardship resulting from the removal of fuel subsidy.

On the party’s 2027 presidential ticket, Atiku maintained that the flagbearer would emerge through a transparent contest.

“Whoever wins in a free and fair process will have our full support. It’s not about Atiku or Obi at all costs, but about Nigeria,” he said.

At the event, prominent defectors including PDP Board of Trustees member Dr Abimbola Ogunkelu, former Lagos PDP chairmen Chief Muritala Ashorobi and Retired Capt. Tunji Shelle, ex-PDP Youth Leader Tai Benedict, and others were formally received into the ADC.

They were welcomed by the party’s national leaders, including National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Kolawole Ogunwale, and Lagos State Chairman George Ashiru.