Atiku Rules Out Stepping Down, Says He’s Ready for 2027 Contest

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed claims that he plans to step aside ahead of the 2027 presidential election, insisting he remains in the race under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

A statement by his media aide, Paul Ibe, said recent reports misrepresented Atiku’s BBC Hausa interview. “At no point did the former Vice President say he intends to step down for anyone,” Ibe clarified, noting Atiku only emphasized his willingness to support any younger candidate who legitimately wins a competitive primary.

Reacting, former Kaduna senator Shehu Sani argued that defeating Atiku in any party primary would be extremely difficult, describing party delegates as “a special breed.”

Atiku also explained that his inability to resolve the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) internal crisis before joining the ADC stemmed from his lack of authority as neither national chairman nor secretary. He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of sponsoring divisions within the PDP.

Meanwhile, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, rejected claims of internal war, insisting the party remains united despite disagreements. He defended the dissolution of Akwa Ibom executives after Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the APC, accusing the state leadership of aligning with the ruling party.

Security operatives have since taken over the PDP secretariat in Uyo amid conflicting statements from party officials. While the NWC announced a caretaker committee, state chairman Aniekan Akpan dismissed the move as illegal, pledging loyalty to Governor Eno and vowing to complete his tenure.