Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has brushed aside talk of leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) despite the party’s current leadership struggles.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the organization, expressing total confidence that internal conflicts will be settled through the judicial system.
During a conversation with BBC Pidgin, Atiku challenged the idea that the ticking clock would derail his 2027 political goals. “Observers are not lawyers,” he remarked. “Oh yes, we can meet up.”
Despite the friction between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the faction headed by David Mark, Atiku insisted his team is undeterred.
“We have not even started our congresses from the ward level,” he pointed out, explaining that the dispute is currently back before the courts.
He remains hopeful that the trial court will rule quickly—ideally before party congresses begin—to legitimize Mark’s leadership.
Responding to rumors that rival parties are trying to recruit him during this period of instability, Atiku minimized the chance of a move.
“Some of these parties haven’t got the structures,” he argued, maintaining that the ADC is a robust and effective vehicle for his ambitions.
He further explained that the extensive opposition coalition he is part of has been under construction for over 18 months.
Atiku indicated that internal formalities are being finalized to allow the alliance to move forward with key figures like Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Finally, he dismissed any suggestion that his path to the ADC’s 2027 presidential nomination is narrowing, highlighting the inclusive nature of the partnership.
“It is a coalition we have agreed—we are all leaders, and we believe there is room for everybody. It can accommodate everybody,” he concluded.
