Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has confirmed that the 2027 election will mark his final attempt to become Nigeria’s president, whether he wins or loses, ruling out any comeback bid in 2031.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate made the declaration in a Hausa-language interview on Wednesday, responding to a question on whether he’d try again in a future election if 2027 doesn’t go his way.
“No, I have said it before, right from this election, I will not contest again,” he said plainly.
Atiku, who has run for president multiple times over the decades, also used the moment to appeal to Nigerians holding Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to come out and vote in large numbers next year, describing turnout as key to changing the country’s fortunes. He didn’t stop at urging people to vote either, he encouraged them to stick around after casting their ballots to witness the counting process and make sure their votes were properly recorded.
“First of all, I appeal to those who have voter cards, for their own sake, their families, and their future, to go out and vote. That is the solution to the problems they are facing,” he said. “After going out to vote, they should also stay, escort, and ensure that those votes are counted.”
Addressing questions about his fitness for the demands of the office, Atiku pushed back firmly, insisting he’s in good health and fully capable of governing.
“No doctor has declared that I am unfit in terms of health. I know my body, I know I am healthy, and I do not have a single defect,” he said.
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