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Tag: Atiku Abubakar

  • ADC Picks Amaechi as Atiku’s Running Mate for 2027 Election

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has selected former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as the party’s vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, pairing him with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    The announcement was made on Monday by ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, who said Amaechi’s emergence followed consultations with party leaders, coalition partners and stakeholders across the country.

    ADC Explains Amaechi’s Selection

    According to the party, Amaechi’s selection was influenced by his performance in the ADC presidential primary, where he emerged as runner-up, as well as his experience in public service.

    The party noted that his record as former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term governor and former Minister of Transportation makes him a strong complement to Atiku’s candidacy.

    Abdullahi said the partnership brings together two politicians with extensive experience in governance and national politics.

    Party Describes Ticket as National Alliance

    ADC described the Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a national alliance aimed at addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

    According to the statement, Amaechi’s political influence in the South-South and across southern Nigeria would strengthen the party’s reach ahead of the election.

    The party also argued that the combination of both leaders offers experience in governance, public administration and coalition building.

    Focus on 2027 Election

    ADC said the ticket represents its effort to provide Nigerians with what it described as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The party expressed confidence that the partnership would energise its supporters and strengthen its campaign across the country.

    It also called on party members, coalition partners, youth groups, women organisations and other stakeholders to support its plans for the next general election.

  • Atiku Camp Rejects Babachir Lawal’s Rigging Allegation

    The camp of African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has rejected allegations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, that the party’s presidential primary was manipulated.

    Lawal had announced his exit from the party on Monday, claiming the primary election was rigged in favour of Atiku.

    Atiku’s Aide Demands Evidence

    Responding to the allegation, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phark Shaibu, said Lawal failed to provide any evidence to support his claims.

    “Having chosen to malign a democratic process, insult thousands of ADC members nationwide, and make grave allegations without presenting a shred of evidence, it has become necessary to set the record straight,” Shaibu said.

    According to him, the primary election was conducted across thousands of wards and produced a clear outcome that reflected the wishes of party members.

    “The truth is straightforward. The ADC presidential primaries were conducted across thousands of wards and produced a clear and decisive outcome. What Mr Lawal has offered Nigerians is not evidence,” he added.

    Questions Over Adamawa Outcome

    Shaibu also questioned Lawal’s criticism of the process, noting that the same primary election produced a result favourable to his family in Adamawa State.

    He referenced the emergence of Omar Suleiman, described as Lawal’s cousin, as the ADC governorship candidate in the state.

    “Nigerians are entitled to ask whether the process was only credible when it favoured his family and only rigged when it produced a presidential candidate he did not support,” Shaibu said.

    Religious Allegation Dismissed

    The Atiku camp also rejected Lawal’s allegation that the former vice president was pursuing a religious agenda.

    Shaibu argued that Lawal had turned to identity politics after failing to convince party members to support his preferred candidate.

    “Having failed to persuade ADC members to embrace his preferred candidate, he now seeks refuge in the divisive politics of identity,” he said.

    He added that such arguments do not address the economic and security challenges facing Nigerians.

    2027 Election Will Be Decided by Voters

    Shaibu maintained that Atiku’s public record and business achievements remain well known to Nigerians, describing him as committed to national unity and economic reforms.

    He stressed that the outcome of the 2027 election would ultimately be determined by voters rather than post-primary disputes.

    “The 2027 election will not be decided by tantrums, ethnic dog whistles, recycled grievances, or revisionist history. It will be decided by the Nigerian people,” he said.

  • Atiku Slams Tinubu’s Three Years in Office, Says Nigerians Face Hunger, Insecurity

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, saying the government’s three years in office have brought hardship, insecurity, poverty and hopelessness to Nigerians.

    Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the remarks in a statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.

    Atiku Says Nigerians Have Seen “Enough”

    The former vice president accused the Tinubu administration of relying on propaganda and political deception instead of addressing the realities facing ordinary Nigerians.

    “Three years ago, President Tinubu promised renewed hope. What Nigerians have received instead is renewed hardship, renewed insecurity, renewed poverty, and renewed hopelessness,” Atiku stated.

    According to him, rising inflation, unemployment, naira depreciation and the collapse of businesses have worsened living conditions across the country.

    He added that food prices had become unaffordable for many households, deepening economic hardship nationwide.

    Questions Over Government Borrowing

    Atiku also criticised the Federal Government’s borrowing under Tinubu’s administration, questioning the impact of the loans on citizens’ lives.

    He alleged that public records showed the government borrowed about ₦11.9 trillion within nine months but spent only ₦3.1 trillion on capital projects.

    “Nigerians are therefore entitled to ask a simple question: where did the rest of the money go?” he asked.

    The ADC flagbearer further raised concerns over infrastructure spending, alleging that projects appeared to favour politically connected interests.

    Insecurity Remains Major Concern

    Atiku said the continued cases of kidnappings and attacks across the country reflected the administration’s failure in addressing insecurity.

    He referenced the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Borno State and the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    “What greater evidence of failure can there be than parents sending their children to school only to receive news that they have been abducted?” he said.

    According to him, the incidents showed that many communities across Nigeria remain unsafe despite repeated government assurances.

    “No Amount Of Propaganda Can Hide Reality”

    The former vice president argued that governance should be judged by the experiences of citizens and not official statements from government officials.

    “No amount of propaganda can fill an empty stomach. No amount of spin can erase insecurity,” he stated.

    He urged Nigerians to use the ballot box to demand change in future elections, insisting that citizens have the constitutional power to decide the country’s direction.

    “The ballot box remains the most powerful weapon in the hands of the people,” Atiku added.

    ADC Promises Alternative Policy Blueprint

    Atiku disclosed that the ADC would soon unveil a comprehensive policy document focused on tackling insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and institutional failure.

    According to him, the proposed blueprint would cover economic recovery, job creation, education, healthcare, fiscal discipline and security reforms.

    He also pledged that his campaign would focus on competence, ideas and practical solutions rather than propaganda and political insults.

    The statement comes as President Tinubu marks his third anniversary in office amid continued debate over the state of Nigeria’s economy and security situation.

  • Atiku Visits Amaechi After Winning ADC Presidential Ticket

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Thursday visited former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi at his Abuja residence, hours after emerging as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election.

    Atiku was accompanied by former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, and other party leaders during the visit.

    Visit Comes After ADC Primary Victory

    The meeting followed the conclusion of the ADC presidential primary held at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, where Atiku defeated Amaechi and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen to secure the party’s ticket.

    According to results announced by the party, Atiku polled 1,846,370 votes, while Amaechi secured 504,117 votes and Hayatu-Deen received 177,120 votes.

    Former Senate President David Mark, who currently leads the party, later presented the ADC flag to Atiku after his victory was confirmed.

    ADC Rejects Consensus Arrangement

    The ADC had earlier adopted the direct primary option after the three aspirants reportedly declined calls for a consensus candidate ahead of the exercise.

    The primary election attracted attention amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Despite the contest, Atiku’s visit to Amaechi appeared to signal efforts toward unity within the opposition party after the primary process.

    Atiku Speaks On Meeting

    In a post shared on his X handle after the visit, Atiku disclosed that both leaders discussed the current challenges facing the country, including insecurity and economic hardship.

    “This afternoon, I visited my brother and compatriot, former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, at his Abuja residence,” Atiku wrote.

    “Beyond the warmth and camaraderie, we had deep and honest conversations about the troubling state of our nation, the growing economic pain, insecurity, and the urgent responsibility on patriotic Nigerians to continue engaging in the search for solutions that can rescue our country from drift and despair.”

    Birthday Banter And Arsenal Joke

    Atiku also revealed that he used the opportunity to celebrate Amaechi’s birthday and joked about Arsenal’s recent success.

    “I also felicitated with him on the occasion of his birthday yesterday and teased that Arsenal’s historic triumph could not have arrived at a better time. Chief Amaechi, a thoroughly well-loaded Gunner, took the banter in very good spirits,” he added.

    The former vice president further joked that Amaechi apologised for not preparing Fisherman Soup before the visit.

    The development comes as opposition parties intensify consultations and coalition talks ahead of the 2027 presidential election in Nigeria.

  • Atiku Defeats Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen to Clinch ADC Presidential Ticket for 2027

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has emerged as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Atiku was declared winner late Wednesday night in Abuja after the conclusion of the party’s presidential primary collation process.

    Atiku Defeats Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen

    The results were announced by the chairman of the ADC Presidential Primary Electoral Committee, Tunde Ogbeha.

    According to the official figures released, Atiku polled 1,846,370 votes to defeat former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, who secured 504,117 votes.

    Economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen came third with 177,120 votes.

    Ogbeha declared Atiku winner after the two-day collation exercise concluded in Abuja.

    Rivals Reject Outcome

    Despite the announcement, both Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen reportedly rejected the outcome of the primary election and the collation process.

    The details surrounding their objections were not immediately disclosed at the time of filing this report.

    The primary comes after weeks of consultations, negotiations and political realignments within opposition circles ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    Atiku Makes History Again

    The victory marks the fourth time Atiku will emerge as a presidential candidate in Nigeria’s political history.

    The former vice president previously contested presidential elections under different political platforms, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    His emergence is expected to shape fresh conversations within the opposition coalition as political activities ahead of 2027 continue to gather momentum.

  • Atiku, Amaechi Battle For ADC Presidential Ticket As Primaries Hold Nationwide

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi have participated in the presidential primaries of the African Democratic Congress amid growing internal rivalry over the party’s 2027 presidential ticket.

    The exercise, which took place simultaneously across 8,809 wards nationwide, comes as opposition figures intensify efforts to position themselves ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Atiku Casts Vote In Adamawa

    Atiku disclosed through his X account that he voted at the Ajiya Ward Polling Unit in Jimeta, Yola, Adamawa State.

    The former presidential candidate described the exercise as a demonstration of democracy and a major step towards rebuilding Nigeria.

    “This is democracy at work. The election taking place simultaneously in 8,809 wards in Nigeria is a major step in our quest to recover our beloved country and set it on the path of prosperity,” Atiku wrote.

    Amaechi Votes In Rivers

    Amaechi also participated in the exercise from his hometown in Ubima community, Rivers State.

    A video shared by ADC Vanguard showed the former Minister of Transportation arriving at the polling venue to cast his vote.

    The latest development further highlights the growing power struggle within the ADC coalition as several opposition leaders seek control of the party ahead of the next presidential election.

    Amaechi Targets Atiku’s Electability

    Amaechi recently stated during an interview on Trust TV that Atiku could lose the ADC presidential primary despite his long history of winning party tickets.

    According to him, the major issue before delegates should be electability rather than how many primaries a candidate has won in the past.

    “I listened when they said former Vice President said he never failed primary before. I hope this will be the first time he will fail primary,” Amaechi said.

    “But that’s not even the issue. The issue is that at all times that you have passed primary, you have not won election. So it’s about electability.”

    The former governor also questioned what Atiku still had to offer Nigerians after several presidential attempts.

    ADC Crisis Deepens

    The ADC had earlier postponed its presidential screening exercise following disagreements among stakeholders over moves to adopt a consensus candidate.

    The internal disagreements reportedly involve Atiku, Amaechi, and former presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

    The party has recently emerged as a platform attracting opposition politicians seeking to challenge Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027.

     

  • Atiku Falls Ill As ADC Postpones Presidential Screening Amid Consensus Talks

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly fallen ill and was placed on bed rest, a development said to have contributed to the postponement of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential screening exercise.

    Sources within the party disclosed that Atiku became ill over the weekend and has been receiving treatment from his personal physician at home.

    The development comes amid growing internal consultations within the ADC over the party’s presidential screening process ahead of the 2027 election.

    ADC Shifts Screening Exercise

    The ADC had earlier announced the postponement of its presidential screening exercise from Monday to Wednesday.

    Party insiders said the delay was linked to ongoing discussions among leading aspirants and party stakeholders over the possibility of adopting a consensus candidate.

    Key figures reportedly involved in the talks include former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Atiku Abubakar, and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

    A source within the party said officials who visited Atiku over the weekend were informed that he was unwell.

    “We went to see him on Saturday to discuss the manifesto and they said he cannot come down because he was sick,” the source said.

    Another party source added that the former vice president remained indisposed as of Monday.

    “He fell seriously sick on Saturday. He was treated at home by his personal physician and placed on enforced bed rest throughout Sunday,” the source disclosed.

    Party Yet To Confirm Health Status

    According to insiders, ADC leadership was formally informed about Atiku’s condition after attempts to meet with him.

    “The party leadership was informed when they sought to see him. His current condition is still unclear,” another source said.

    The former vice president was last publicly seen during the submission of his nomination forms at the ADC national secretariat in Abuja before reports of his illness emerged.

    However, Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, dismissed claims suggesting that the former vice president was seriously ill.

    ADC Cites Security Concerns

    Meanwhile, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, had earlier explained that the screening exercise was postponed due to internal adjustments and security concerns affecting some northern states.

    The party also announced that screening for certain federal lawmaker aspirants from affected northern areas would now take place in Abuja.

    As of the time of filing this report, the ADC had not officially confirmed Atiku Abubakar’s health condition.

  • “ADC Is His Party” — Lawmaker Accuses Atiku of Dominating Coalition

    A fresh rift may be unfolding within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition after a federal lawmaker, Hon. Ifeanyi Uzokwe, accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of dominating the group’s structure.

    The claim adds to ongoing concerns about internal disagreements ahead of the next election cycle.

    Claims of personal control

    Uzokwe alleged that key decisions within the coalition were being driven by Atiku rather than through collective agreement.

    According to him, tensions escalated after claims that the coalition was formed under Atiku’s personal influence.

    “We left ADC because His Excellency Atiku Abubakar said that coalition was formed in his house, that ADC is his party, that nobody will tell him anything,” he said.

    Dispute over primaries and zoning

    The lawmaker questioned the process for selecting candidates, insisting that all aspirants should be allowed to compete through transparent primaries.

    He suggested that Atiku should step aside to allow southern contenders to emerge.

    “Let him say he is stepping down… let Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi and others go into primaries,” he stated.

    Uzokwe also referenced internal zoning discussions, claiming some factions had already conceded the presidential ticket to the South.

    ‘Mass movement’ claim rejected

    Dismissing narratives of a unified opposition front, Uzokwe accused some political actors of misleading Nigerians.

    “What are you telling me? Somebody that stood for election in 2023 and you are telling me about primaries. My brother, stop telling lies to Nigerians,” he said.

    He further claimed that multiple meetings were held among political stakeholders, but no consensus was reached on power-sharing arrangements.

    Coalition tensions deepen

    The remarks point to deeper divisions within the ADC coalition, particularly over leadership control and strategic direction.

    With political realignments continuing, the situation is likely to shape how opposition forces organise ahead of 2027.

  • ADC, Atiku Camp Dismiss NDC Defection Talks Amid Coalition Speculation

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have denied reports suggesting ongoing defection talks with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), pushing back against claims of a possible midweek announcement.

    The denial comes at a time of growing uncertainty within opposition ranks as political alignments begin to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Atiku Camp Rejects Claims

    Reacting to the reports, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, dismissed any suggestion of talks involving the former vice president or former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola.

    “If that is the case, I will be the first to know. I don’t think that there’s anything like that,” Ibe said.

    His response directly contradicts claims that key figures within the opposition were already in advanced discussions with the NDC.

    ADC Labels Report ‘Rubbish’

    Within the ADC, party officials also distanced themselves from the speculation, insisting there were no such engagements.

    National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi described the reports in blunt terms.

    “100% rubbish,” he said, rejecting claims linking the party’s leadership to any defection arrangement.

    Speculation Grows After Recent Defections

    The rumours gained traction following the recent defection of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the NDC, a development that has triggered wider conversations about a possible opposition realignment.

    Since then, the NDC has increasingly been mentioned as a potential rallying platform for political figures seeking a new coalition structure.

    Coalition Talks Still Unclear

    Sources familiar with ongoing discussions suggest that while contacts may exist among political actors, they are more likely part of broader coalition conversations rather than direct plans to switch parties.

    With internal disputes still unresolved within the ADC and other opposition platforms, political stakeholders appear to be weighing multiple options ahead of the next election cycle.

    The situation remains fluid, with parties expected to clarify their positions in the coming weeks as preparations for 2027 intensify.

  • Atiku Slams Tinubu Over Hardship, Says Workers’ Day Not for Celebration

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, saying worsening economic conditions have made this year’s Workers’ Day a moment of concern rather than celebration.

    Atiku describes May Day as ‘painful reminder’

    In a message shared on Friday via his X handle, Atiku said the 2026 Workers’ Day reflects the growing burden on Nigerian workers.

    “This year’s Workers’ Day is not a moment of joy for millions of Nigerians. It is a painful reminder of broken promises,” he said.

    Criticism of subsidy removal policy

    The former vice president faulted the removal of fuel subsidy, describing it as necessary but poorly executed.

    “Let me be clear: the removal of fuel subsidy was inevitable and long overdue. However, its implementation was hasty and without safeguards,” he stated.

    Rising cost of living hits workers

    Atiku said the policy has triggered a sharp rise in the cost of living, affecting transport fares, food prices, and basic goods.

    He added that wages have remained largely unchanged despite increasing economic pressure on citizens.

    “What we have witnessed is a dramatic surge in the cost of living without any commensurate increase in wages,” he said.

    Concerns over use of savings

    He also questioned how funds saved from subsidy removal are being managed, noting that Nigerians have yet to see tangible benefits.

    “Trillions of naira have reportedly been saved, yet the average Nigerian cannot point to any improvement,” he added.

    Calls for urgent government action

    Atiku urged the Federal Government to implement measures such as wage adjustments, social support programmes, and investments in key sectors.

    “Economic reforms must be people-centred,” he said, calling for policies that directly improve workers’ welfare.