Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has pledged to support whoever emerges as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 elections.
Speaking in an interview with DW Hausa published on Saturday, Atiku said he remains committed to party unity and would back the party’s eventual flag bearer.
“We will support and endorse whoever emerges as the candidate. How many of us are contesting, three or four? In the PDP, more than ten of us contested,” he said.
He also highlighted what he described as the ADC’s growing appeal among young people, noting that the party has created space for youth and women’s participation in politics.
“Young people are increasingly taking over the party. Most of those seeking elective positions from councillor to state and national assembly, are youths. We have always said the party belongs to young people and women. Our role is to create opportunities and hand them over,” he added.
When asked whether he would support a young presidential candidate, Atiku responded affirmatively: “Yes, why not?”
He dismissed concerns that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could weaken the ADC following the delisting of the David Mark-led faction, insisting that the party continues to gain traction nationwide.
Atiku alleged that powerful interests are behind the challenges facing the party, attributing the situation to its rising popularity.
Reflecting on his personal journey, he said, “Allah has done everything for me. I have brought my children and grandchildren home. What matters now is their future and that of their generation.”
He expressed confidence that Nigerians are increasingly demanding change, citing ongoing economic hardship and insecurity.
“We are confident that Nigerians are yearning for change. They are ready. They are being pushed to the wall and may do even more than they did in previous elections,” he said.
Atiku linked the worsening insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, to youth unemployment and limited access to education.
“Insecurity is more severe in the North due to unemployment and lack of education. Education has been neglected. Governments have failed to ensure children are in school, and even graduates lack job or business opportunities. I have never seen a period like this in Nigeria,” he said.
He also accused the government of failing to effectively tackle corruption.
“There is widespread embezzlement, and corruption is rampant. The government appears to have turned a blind eye,” he added.
