Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that he will support whoever emerges as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 general election.
Atiku made this known while reacting to internal developments within the ADC and concerns over its leadership crisis.
He dismissed claims that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could destabilise the party, insisting that the ADC continues to gain traction across the country despite recent challenges.
Tribune Online reports that INEC had earlier announced it would remove the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, led by David Mark, from its portal following a Court of Appeal ruling
Speaking during an interview with DW Hausa, Atiku alleged that powerful interests were behind the party’s current situation, attributing the development to its growing popularity.
Regarding his presidential ambition, the former Vice President stated that he would abide by the party’s decision and support its eventual candidate.
“We will support and endorse whoever emerges as the flag bearer. How many are we (presidential aspirants), three or four? In the PDP, more than ten of us contested,” he said.
Atiku also described the ADC as a platform that prioritises youth participation, noting that young people are increasingly taking up leadership roles within the party.
“The youths have taken over the party. Most of those seeking elective positions, from councillor to state assembly, national assembly, and House of Representatives, are young people. We have always said our party belongs to youths and women. Our role is to create the opportunity and hand it over to them,” he said.
When asked if he would support a younger presidential candidate, Atiku responded in the affirmative.
“Yes, why not. Allah has done everything for me. I have brought my sons and grandchildren home. What will be their future and that of their children?” he said.
He expressed confidence that Nigerians are ready for change, citing worsening economic hardship and insecurity across the country.
“We are confident that Nigerians are yearning for change. They are ready for it. They are being pushed to the wall and are prepared to do even more than they did in the previous elections,” he said.
Atiku linked rising insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, to youth unemployment and limited access to education, warning that the situation has worsened over time.
“Insecurity is more severe in the northern states, largely due to youth unemployment and lack of access to education. When you go round the region, you see that education is not receiving the attention it deserves. It has been relegated.
“Governments have not ensured that children enrol in school, and even when they graduate, there are no jobs or business opportunities. I have never witnessed a period like this in Nigeria.”
