Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said Saturday he will back whoever emerges as the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, putting party unity ahead of personal ambition.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja, Atiku who ran for president in 2019 and 2023 under the PDP said internal democracy in the ADC matters more than individual interests. “The goal is to present a credible alternative to Nigerians,” he said. “I’ll support whoever the process throws up.”
The ADC, a major opposition party, is yet to hold its primary. Atiku’s pledge is seen as an attempt to broaden his coalition after two defeats, though analysts note he has no formal role in the ADC. Party members welcomed the promise but stressed the nominee will be chosen by delegates, not endorsements.
Atiku’s camp says the statement signals readiness to work across party lines ahead of 2027, while critics call it vague positioning. Either way, it adds another twist to Nigeria’s fluid pre‑election maneuvering.
The comment comes days after back‑channel talks between ADC leaders and several northern blocs, according to party insiders. Civil‑society groups urged Atiku to spell out policy specifics rather than stop at endorsements, while market watchers noted the naira held steady—no immediate economic ripple. With primaries still months away, rivals are already framing his pledge as a hedge, not a platform, setting up a test of whether “unity” talk will translate into votes.
