Jonathan: Atiku Ready to Step Aside for Younger Candidate in 2027
A prominent figure in the opposition coalition African Democratic Congress (ADC), former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has declared that he would be willing to shelve his presidential ambition in 2027 if a younger and widely accepted candidate emerges.
In a fresh disclosure obtained by PulseNets through an exclusive interview granted to the BBC Hausa Service on Wednesday, Atiku made it clear that his interest in the 2027 race is not driven by personal ambition but rather by the desire to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative to the current administration.
According to the former VP,
“My interest in the 2027 contest is not about self-seeking ambition. It is about rescuing Nigerians and ensuring a credible path forward. If a younger, vibrant and generally accepted candidate emerges, I am ready to step aside.”
Atiku told PulseNets that his involvement in the next general election should not be seen as desperation for power. Instead, he emphasised that his political stance is about rescuing the nation from those he described as having held it hostage for years.
He further stressed the importance of youth participation in politics, saying he would fully support younger Nigerians if they are chosen under the ADC platform to fly the presidential ticket.
“The future belongs to the young. They must not only participate but also take the lead. If one of them is selected to contest, I will back them completely,” Atiku said.
Atiku also clarified that his presence in the 2027 race does not shut the door on other aspirants.
“My being in the race does not stop anyone else. What matters is having the right leadership. If that leadership comes from a younger generation, I will not hesitate to give way,” he affirmed in his discussion with BBC Hausa Service.
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With this statement, Atiku has positioned himself as both a contender and a potential kingmaker, signalling a new phase in Nigeria’s political landscape as the countdown to 2027 intensifies.
