Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed speculation regarding his potential candidacy in the 2027 presidential election, stating that his decision will depend on the establishment of a strong and viable opposition platform.
Speaking on the matter, Atiku emphasized the importance of unity among opposition forces, recalling the successful merger of opposition parties in 2014 that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC). “We had a similar merger in 2014. Several of us contested, and one person emerged as the candidate. We all rallied behind him, and he won,” he noted, as reported by Daily Trust.
Despite his uncertainty about running, Atiku stressed the urgent need for experienced leadership in Nigeria. He echoed concerns previously raised by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, stating that the country’s democratic system is deteriorating. Describing the current state of affairs as "very dire," he expressed disappointment that governance has not significantly improved despite many politicians from his generation holding key positions.
“I see leadership standards declining instead of improving, and that is distressing,” he lamented, according to Leadership.
Atiku also criticized the integrity of the current legislative leadership, particularly over the National Assembly’s approval of the state of emergency in Rivers State. “I am not surprised,” he remarked, alleging that corruption continues to undermine the credibility of the institution.
While speculation about his 2027 candidacy continues, Atiku’s remarks indicate that his political future will largely depend on how opposition forces strategize and unite in the coming years.
