Atiku Rejects Call to Step Down, Attacks Tinubu

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has firmly rejected calls asking him to step down from contesting for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket, accusing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of orchestrating moves to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general election.

Atiku, who has remained a central figure in Nigeria’s opposition politics, described the calls for his withdrawal as politically motivated and misleading, insisting that he has the constitutional right and party backing to seek the ADC ticket.

According to him, recent pressures within the opposition space are part of a broader strategy allegedly sponsored by the ruling party to fragment opposition forces and undermine efforts to present a united front against the incumbent government.

“These distractions are not accidental. They are calculated attempts to destabilise the opposition and deny Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027,” Atiku was quoted as saying.

The former vice president further accused the Tinubu administration of interfering in opposition affairs, claiming that state power is being used to intimidate, divide, and weaken rival political parties.

He, however, called on opposition leaders and supporters to remain focused, stressing that the battle ahead is about rescuing Nigeria from economic hardship, insecurity, and poor governance.

Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to the ADC and said consultations with party stakeholders were ongoing to build a strong coalition capable of challenging the ruling party in the next presidential election.