-Accuses APC of Interfering in ADC Affairs
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential aspirant, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has vowed not to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race, dismissing calls for him to “step aside” as a betrayal of the Nigerian people.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday titled, *“Nigeria’s Democracy Under Siege: Opposition Faces Existential Threat,”* Atiku accused the Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to destabilize the ADC and meddle in its internal candidate selection process.
The statement, signed by his media aide, Paul Ibe, comes amid reports that several high-profile figures, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former APC presidential aspirant Rotimi Amaechi, have also set their sights on the ADC ticket.
**Allegations of a One-Party State**
Atiku accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of a calculated plot to foist a “de facto one-party state” on Nigeria by weakening opposition structures.
“For nearly three years, Nigerians have endured one of the harshest periods in recent history—an era defined by punishing economic policies and a shrinking democratic space,” the statement read.
Atiku alleged that “agents aligned with the Presidency” are now issuing “reckless prescriptions” regarding the ADC’s choice of a presidential candidate in an attempt to neutralize the emerging political alternative.
“Any call—overt or covert—for Atiku to ‘step aside’ is a gift to authoritarian ambition and a betrayal of the Nigerian people,” Ibe stated.
**Commitment to Transparent Primaries**
Despite the alleged external interference, Atiku noted that all contenders for the ADC ticket would submit themselves to a national convention. He stated that the party leadership has assured all aspirants of a “transparent and competitive process.”
The statement further suggested that if anyone should be asked to withdraw, it should be the incumbent.
“No one is stepping down. If anyone should step aside, it is President Tinubu—whose leadership has become a national liability,” the statement added.
**A Growing Coalition**
The ADC appears to be positioning itself as a “mega” opposition platform. The statement referenced the recent public declaration of ADC membership by Peter Obi in Enugu as a turning point that has unsettled the ruling party.
“The fear is evident,” Atiku said, citing alleged boasts by serving ministers and presidential aides to undermine the party’s growth.
“The ADC is on a national rescue mission. Nigeria will not surrender its democracy without a fight,” the statement concluded.
