Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has declared that he will not withdraw from the 2027 presidential race despite the recent court decision nullifying the leadership of the African Democratic Congress insisting that he remains committed to contesting the election.
Atiku, the ADC presidential candidate, made his position known in a statement issued in Sokoto on Friday, where he accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of using political pressure and judicial processes to weaken opposition parties.
Reacting to the court ruling which nullified the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC and its decisions, the former vice-president maintained that Nigerians must be allowed to freely elect their leaders without interference.
He said, “I am in this race. I am not going anywhere. We will be on the ballot. No threat, blackmail or court manoeuvre will make me abandon you or the cause we share.”
Atiku alleged that the Tinubu administration was pursuing policies and political strategies aimed at weakening opposition parties and steering Nigeria towards a one-party state.
He also raised concerns about alleged attempts to manipulate the voters’ register through artificial intelligence-generated photographs, fake names and fictitious identities.
Questioning the ruling party’s alleged fear of electoral competition despite its claimed political strength, Atiku challenged the APC to demonstrate its popularity through a free, fair and credible election.
The former vice-president further criticised the Federal Government’s economic policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, the depreciation of the naira and rising costs of food and petroleum products.
He blamed the administration’s policies for worsening economic hardship, forcing some businesses to shut down and increasing the financial difficulties faced by households.
Atiku also expressed concern over insecurity, citing persistent attacks by bandits and kidnappers as well as the increasing number of young Nigerians leaving the country in search of better opportunities.
He urged Nigerians to remain committed to democracy and exercise their voting rights in the 2027 general election.
“We will resist with all our strength every attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. Nigeria belongs to all its people. Our democracy must remain open to more than one party and more than one voice,” he said.
Atiku maintained that his political campaign would continue to prioritise addressing the rising cost of living and improving the welfare of Nigerians.
He concluded by insisting that the courts could not determine the people’s choice of president, declaring, “Bola cannot use the courts to escape the judgment of Nigerians at the ballot box.”
