Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has stated that his primary goal is to see a better Nigeria, not to become president at all costs.
Speaking at a ceremony in Lagos on Saturday where several prominent politicians, including former members of the PDP and Labour Party (LP), joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku emphasised that his political movement is focused on national improvement rather than personal ambition.
Represented by Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Owo, he described the ADC not merely as a political party but as “a movement of Nigerians for a better Nigeria.”
READ ALSO: Atiku-Obi alliance could weaken APC in 2027, says party chieftain
He articulated that his interest lies in the emergence of a “good government that will be able to deliver for Nigerians,” and that this desire supersedes any personal quest for the presidency.
“It’s not about Atiku having to be president at all costs,” Olateju relayed on his behalf. “It is not a matter of must. The must is for him to see Nigeria deliver as wished by all.”
The former PDP candidate highlighted the current economic hardships faced by Nigerians, including the impact of fuel subsidy removal and rising inflation.
He stated that a “better Nigeria is possible with good leadership” and expressed confidence that the new coalition within the ADC could be instrumental in bringing about positive change.
On the question of who might represent the ADC as its presidential candidate in the 2027 elections, Atiku said the process would be determined by party members through a free and fair contest.
He added that there would be no imposition of any candidate.
“Whoever picks the ticket shall be the representative of the Nigerian people and will represent the collective voice and aspiration of Nigeria,” he stated.
READ ALSO: Atiku celebrates Nafisa Aminu, Nigerian student named World’s best in English
Among the notable figures who defected to the ADC were PDP Board of Trustees member Dr Abimbola Ogunkelu, and former Lagos PDP chairmen Chief Muritala Ashorobi and Capt. Tunji Shelle (retd.).
They were welcomed by national and state ADC leaders, including National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola.
