Atiku Vows to Remain in 2027 Presidential Race, Says No Threat Can Stop Him

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reaffirmed his determination to contest the 2027 presidential election, insisting that no political pressure, threats or court decisions will force him out of the race.

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the declaration on Friday while urging his supporters to remain committed despite the recent Federal High Court ruling against the party's leadership.

On Thursday, a Federal High Court in Abuja nullified the leadership of the ADC led by Senator David Mark and invalidated decisions taken under the leadership, including Atiku's emergence as the party's presidential candidate.

However, in a statement personally signed by him, Atiku maintained that he would remain in the contest and that his name would appear on the ballot.

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."

The former vice president described the court ruling as contrary to the wishes of Nigerians, arguing that no political manipulation could deny citizens the opportunity to choose their preferred leaders.

Atiku also criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of using political pressure, court manoeuvres and other tactics to weaken opposition parties.

He further alleged that attempts were being made to compromise the voters' register through AI-generated photographs, false names and fictitious identities.

According to him, such actions could undermine democratic competition and push the country towards a one-party system.

The ADC presidential hopeful also criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the removal of fuel subsidy, the depreciation of the naira, rising food prices, business closures and worsening insecurity.

He urged Nigerians not to lose hope, insisting that their votes remained the strongest instrument for determining the country's political future.

Atiku further vowed that he and his supporters would resist any attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state.

He challenged the ruling party to face the opposition in a free, fair and credible election rather than relying on political influence or judicial processes.

"Let me say this plainly: Bola cannot use the courts to escape the judgment of Nigerians at the ballot box," he declared.