Atiku Abubakar Confirms 2027 Presidential Bid To ‘Rescue Nigeria From Crisis’.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared his intention to contest the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, vowing to lead efforts to address the nation’s deepening economic and social challenges. The announcement, made through his long-time aide and 2023 campaign spokesperson, Tunde Olusunle, comes amid speculations about his political future and his role in the newly formed opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking from his holiday home in the United Arab Emirates, Atiku dismissed recent comments attributed to him suggesting he was not keen on pursuing the presidency. The remarks, made by Professor Ola Olateju of Achievers University at an ADC event in Lagos, implied that Atiku prioritised national development over personal ambition. Atiku clarified that Olateju’s statements were unauthorised, stating, “When people stand in for me at events, we preview my thoughts to ensure alignment. In this instance, there was no such engagement. Professor Olateju was not speaking for me.”
Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s vice president from 1999 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, emphasised his commitment to addressing Nigeria’s worsening state. “I will run in 2027. Nigeria needs to be decisively rescued from the intensive care unit it has been consigned to. The level of poverty, pain, and anguish is unacceptable,” he said, according to Olusunle. He further criticised the current administration under President Bola Tinubu, accusing it of “unprecedented thievery, deceit, and a lack of accountability” that he believes must concern every patriot.
The 78-year-old politician, who will be 81 by the 2027 election, has a long history of presidential ambitions, having contested six times, including as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in 2019 and 2023. His latest bid follows his departure from the PDP in June 2025 to join forces with other opposition figures, including former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, under the ADC banner. The coalition aims to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and unseat President Tinubu in the upcoming election.
Atiku expressed confidence in the ADC’s potential, describing it as a “potent mass movement” that will “shock the world” in 2027. He sought to reassure supporters that the coalition remains strong despite efforts by the APC to downplay its momentum. However, his declaration may complicate negotiations within the ADC, as other prominent figures, including Peter Obi and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, have also expressed interest in securing the party’s presidential ticket. Atiku has previously stated he would support any candidate who emerges through a fair and transparent primary process, but his renewed ambition suggests he intends to actively compete for the role.
The announcement has sparked varied reactions. Supporters view Atiku’s experience and political network as critical to challenging the APC, while critics argue his repeated bids reflect personal ambition over national interest. Political analyst Dare Glintstone Akinniyi noted that Atiku’s coalition could be formidable if united, but warned that internal rivalries and regional power dynamics could pose challenges.
As Nigeria grapples with economic hardship, rising inflation, and widespread insecurity, Atiku’s campaign is likely to focus on his record as vice president, where he oversaw reforms in telecommunications, pensions, and banking that spurred economic growth. He has promised to mobilise Nigerians to “reclaim and reconstruct” the nation, positioning himself as a leader capable of steering the country out of its current crisis.
With the 2027 election still two years away, Atiku’s declaration sets the stage for a heated contest within the ADC and beyond. His resolve to run underscores his enduring influence in Nigerian politics and his determination to achieve his long-held presidential ambition.