Atiku says he’s ready to step aside for younger aspirants if defeated in ADC primary

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that he is willing to step aside for a younger aspirant if he fails to clinch the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday, Atiku who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in 2023 said it is still too early to confirm if he will contest. For now, he noted, his focus is on uniting the opposition under the ADC.

“This is only the beginning. Our priority is to build the party and gain a strong following. If I run for office and a young man defeats me, I will accept it. The party we have joined now prioritises youth and women,” Atiku stated.

He dismissed speculations that he might “double-deal” between the PDP and ADC, insisting, “No, I am not known for that. If I say I am going one way, I will go that way.”

Recall that in July, the 78-year-old politician formally resigned from the PDP, citing irreconcilable differences and a departure from the party’s founding principles. In a letter dated July 14, 2025, and addressed to the Chairman of PDP Jada 1 Ward in Adamawa State, Atiku wrote:

“I find it necessary to part ways due to the current trajectory the party has taken, which I believe diverges from the foundational principles we stood for. It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognising the irreconcilable differences that have emerged.”

With his move to the ADC, Atiku says the immediate task is strengthening the party’s base while leaving the door open for a new generation of leaders to emerge.