2027: Atiku Hasn’t Declared Because It’s Not Yet Time – Spokesman
Atiku Abubakar’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, has dismissed reports suggesting that the former vice president has stepped aside for a younger aspirant ahead of the 2027 presidential race, insisting that his BBC Hausa interview was misrepresented.
Ibe clarified that Atiku never said he would drop out, stressing that the former vice president’s words were taken out of context.
According to him, Atiku only explained that young people and other aspirants are free to contest within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition and that he would respect the outcome of a competitive primary.
“It has become necessary to clarify certain misrepresentations arising from the reportage of an interview granted by His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, to the BBC Hausa Service,” Ibe said on Thursday
“After a thorough review of both the video and transcripts – in the original Hausa and the English translation – it is evident that at no point did the former Vice President expressly state, suggest, or imply that he intends to step down for anyone.”
He accused some media houses of twisting Atiku’s comments for mischief. “While interpretative journalism is legitimate, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable. The insinuations attributed to the Waziri Adamawa from his BBC Hausa interview are inaccurate and do not reflect what he actually said,” he added.
In a Trust TV interview, Ibe explained that Atiku’s decision not to declare yet was strategic, saying his focus is on building a solid political platform.
“Atiku Abubakar will not fall for that bait. The real work now is putting structures in place so that when the tsunami begins, the platform will be ready to carry everyone who will align and realign,” he stated.
He further emphasised that Atiku’s resignation from the PDP and alignment with the ADC were final, noting that the former vice president was fully committed to the coalition.
“His resignation from the PDP and alignment with the ADC are irreversible. He has no reservations. He is in full support with his body, soul, and resources,” Ibe said.
On questions surrounding Atiku’s wealth and zoning debates, Ibe argued that Nigerians no longer prioritise where a candidate comes from, but rather competence and credible leadership.
He also defended Atiku’s record of consistency in politics, stressing that he has won most party primaries he has contested.
Comparing Atiku’s timing to serving a meal, Ibe remarked, “When do you serve a meal? You serve it when it is ready.”
He also took a swipe at President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying, “Average Nigerians cannot be asked to tighten their belts while leaders live in affluence and steal the country blind. These policies are only working for the urban bandits, not the rest of Nigerians.”
According to Ibe, Atiku remains open to fair competition. “As a democrat, Atiku’s policy is the more the merrier. Everyone should go to the field and test their popularity,” he said.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
