Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that he is willing to step aside for a younger aspirant if he loses the presidential primary 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’s (PDP) candidate in the 2023 elections, said it was still too early to confirm his candidacy but emphasised that uniting the opposition under the ADC remains his main focus for now.
“This is only the beginning. Our priority is to establish the party and gain a strong following.
“If I run for office, and a young man defeats me, I will accept that.
“The party we have joined now prioritises youth and women,” he stated.
The 78-year-old dismissed speculation that he might play a “double game” by aligning with both the ADC and PDP, stressing, “No, I’m not known for that. If I say I am going one way, I will go that way.”
Verily News earlier reported that Atiku resigned from the PDP in July, citing irreconcilable differences and the party’s deviation from its founding principles.
In a resignation letter dated July 14, 2025, and addressed to the PDP Jada 1 Ward Chairman in Adamawa State, Atiku formally ended his membership, writing:
“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.”
What you should know
Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Vice President and serial presidential contender, has shifted his political base to the African Democratic Congress after resigning from the PDP in July 2025.
His recent comments highlight openness to generational change in leadership while maintaining focus on building a stronger opposition bloc ahead of 2027.
