Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, made this known in an interview with BBC Hausa.
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has said he cannot disclose whether he will contest for president in the 2027 general election.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, made this known in an interview with BBC Hausa.
He explained that his attention is on consolidating the strength of the new opposition coalition party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“This is something for later; what we are concentrating on now is ensuring that the new party gains wide acceptance,” Atiku said when asked about his presidential ambition.
The 78-year-old politician, who served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 1999 to 2007, also spoke on his exit from the PDP. In July, he announced his departure from the party, alleging that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had influenced and taken over the opposition.
The PDP quickly dismissed his decision, maintaining that his exit would not leave any vacuum.
Some of his political allies who defected with him have continued to maintain ties with the PDP, much like Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, who remains in the PDP while serving in President Bola Tinubu’s APC-led government.
Atiku, however, insisted he would not be part of such political “double-dealing.”
“No, I am not known for that,” he said, shaking his head. “If I say this is the way, that is the way I will go.”
Atiku has been involved in Nigerian politics for nearly 40 years, with his first presidential bid dating back to 1993 under the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
He ran unsuccessfully for governor of Adamawa in 1990 and 1996 before securing victory in 1998. However, he was never sworn in, as he became the running mate of Olusegun Obasanjo on the PDP ticket in 1999.
Since then, he has made three unsuccessful attempts at the presidency and lost in several party primaries. His exit from the PDP marks a significant twist in his long quest to lead the country.
Atiku also suggested that he could step aside for younger aspirants in 2027, stating that he would fully support them if they emerged.
“If I contest and a young candidate defeats me, then I will accept it,” he said.
He emphasised that the ADC would prioritise younger politicians and women in its structure.
“In this new party we have joined, our priority is the youth and women,” Atiku Abubakar stated.
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