2027: 'I am in the race, I will be on the ballot' — Atiku dares Tinubu

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has challenged President Bola Tinubu, declaring his ongoing candidacy and intent to appear on the ballot for the 2027 election. In a recent statement, Atiku accused the Tinubu government of employing political pressure and court tactics to undermine opposition parties, alleging this to be part of a strategy to establish a one-party state in Nigeria.

The ADC leader emphasized that the court's recent ruling should not be equated with the desires of the Nigerian populace, stressing that citizens must retain the authority to elect their leaders.

Atiku also pointed out potential tampering with the voters' register through AI-generated images, false identities, and fabricated names. He criticized Tinubu's administration for fuel subsidy elimination, the weakening naira, and escalating food prices, all of which he linked to the government's contribution to economic hardship.

Factory closures, the exodus of young people, banditry, and kidnappings were cited as additional challenges facing the nation. Despite these concerns, Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to the election, stating, "I am in this race. I am not going anywhere. We will be on the ballot."

He urged the ruling party to engage the opposition in a transparent and credible electoral process, rather than leveraging political influence to hinder the voting procedure. "If those in power believe in their numbers and their record, let us meet at the polls in a free, fair, and credible contest," Atiku said. His final message to Tinubu was firm: "Bola cannot use the courts to evade the will of Nigerians at the ballot box."