In a bold and defiant move, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reaffirmed his determination to contest Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, dismissing speculations that he might step back from the race. Speaking through his long-time associate and 2023 campaign spokesperson, Tunde Olusunle, Atiku announced his resolve to lead a movement aimed at rescuing Nigeria from what he described as an “intensive care” state under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The announcement, reported by Thisday Newspaper on Sunday, August 24, 2025, also saw Atiku defend the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, emphasizing its potential to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape despite its limited impact in recent by-elections. This development has reignited discussions about Atiku’s political ambitions, the state of Nigeria’s governance, and the emerging role of the ADC as a third force in the country’s polarized political arena. This article explores Atiku’s announcement, the context of his political journey, the significance of the ADC coalition, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s future as it approaches the 2027 election.
Atiku’s Declaration: A Call to Rescue Nigeria
Atiku Abubakar’s announcement of his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election comes at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history, as the nation grapples with economic challenges, rising insecurity, and widespread dissatisfaction with governance. Speaking through Tunde Olusunle, Atiku expressed deep concern about the state of the nation, describing it as being in “intensive care” due to what he termed “mega-scale thievery, loss of values, and lack of accountability” under the administration of President Bola Tinubu. His remarks, made public on August 24, 2025, reflect a sense of urgency and a commitment to addressing Nigeria’s myriad challenges through leadership.
“I will be offering myself to lead the reclamation and reconstruction of our traumatized homeland,” Olusunle quoted Atiku as saying following a private engagement. The former Vice President’s rhetoric paints a picture of a nation in crisis, with poverty, unemployment, and systemic corruption eroding the fabric of society. Atiku’s use of the term “traumatized homeland” underscores his belief that Nigeria’s current trajectory is unsustainable, requiring bold and decisive action to restore stability and prosperity. His declaration is not merely a personal ambition but a clarion call to mobilize Nigerians around a vision of renewal and accountability.
Atiku’s decision to contest the 2027 election marks his latest bid for the presidency, a goal he has pursued consistently since 1993. As a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku ran for president in 2007, 2019, and 2023, coming closest to victory in 2019 when he secured 11.2 million votes against Muhammadu Buhari’s 15.2 million. His recent resignation from the PDP, announced in early 2025, and subsequent alignment with the ADC signal a strategic shift, positioning him as a leader of a new political movement aimed at challenging the dominance of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The ADC Coalition: A Formidable Third Force?
Atiku’s announcement included a spirited defense of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a political party that has gained traction in recent months by attracting heavyweight politicians disillusioned with the PDP and APC. The ADC, founded in 2005, has historically been a minor player in Nigeria’s political landscape but has seen a resurgence as a potential third force in response to public frustration with the two major parties. Atiku’s alignment with the ADC, alongside other prominent figures, has raised hopes that the party could disrupt the status quo in 2027.
In his remarks, Atiku acknowledged that the ADC coalition, which was formalized only a few months ago, did not significantly influence the outcome of recent by-elections. These elections, held in several states to fill vacant legislative seats, were dominated by the APC and PDP, reflecting their entrenched organizational structures and resources. However, Atiku argued that it was unrealistic to expect the fledgling coalition to perform spectacularly in its early stages. “The coalition was adopted only a few months ago,” Olusunle quoted him as saying. “It could not have been expected to perform spectacularly in the by-elections that were just held.”
Despite this, Atiku expressed confidence in the ADC’s potential to become a “formidable force” capable of reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape. He predicted that the coalition would “shock the world” by mobilizing Nigerians to upstage the status quo in 2027. This bold assertion reflects Atiku’s belief in the power of grassroots mobilization and strategic alliances to challenge the entrenched interests that have dominated Nigerian politics for decades. The ADC’s appeal lies in its promise of a fresh approach, emphasizing accountability, inclusivity, and economic reform—issues that resonate with a populace weary of corruption and mismanagement.
The ADC’s growing roster of influential figures, including former governors, senators, and technocrats, lends credibility to Atiku’s vision. The party’s platform, which emphasizes youth empowerment, economic diversification, and anti-corruption measures, aligns with Atiku’s long-standing advocacy for restructuring Nigeria’s federal system and addressing systemic inequalities. By positioning himself as a leader of this movement, Atiku aims to tap into the growing discontent with the APC and PDP, both of which have faced criticism for failing to deliver on promises of development and security.
Clarifying Missteps: Addressing Speculation and Misrepresentation
Atiku’s announcement comes amid reports suggesting that he might step back from the 2027 race, a narrative fueled by comments from Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Owo. Olateju, who represented Atiku at a defection event in Lagos over the weekend of August 23–24, 2025, suggested that the former Vice President was more focused on building a better Nigeria than on becoming president “at all costs.” These remarks sparked speculation that Atiku might be reconsidering his candidacy, possibly to focus on mentoring younger leaders or supporting a broader coalition effort.
However, Atiku swiftly distanced himself from Olateju’s comments, clarifying that they were not authorized. Speaking from his holiday home in the United Arab Emirates, Atiku stated, “When people stand in for me at events, we preview my thoughts on the instant subject. In this particular instance, there was no engagement with me to distill my thoughts. Prof. Olateju was not speaking for me.” This clarification underscores Atiku’s determination to control the narrative surrounding his candidacy and avoid ambiguity about his intentions.
Atiku’s emphatic rebuttal also serves as a reminder of his political resilience. At 80 years old in 2027, Atiku will face scrutiny about his age and physical capacity to lead, a criticism that has dogged his previous campaigns. However, his decision to run again reflects a belief that his experience, vision, and leadership are critical to addressing Nigeria’s challenges. “I will run in 2027,” he declared. “Nigeria needs to be decisively rescued from the intensive care unit it has been consigned. The degeneration in our country, the level of poverty and pain, the anguish, is unacceptable.”
Nigeria’s Challenges: The Context of Atiku’s Campaign
Atiku’s critique of the Tinubu administration as placing Nigeria in “intensive care” is rooted in the country’s pressing economic and social challenges. Since assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Tinubu has implemented bold but controversial reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalization of the naira’s exchange rate. While these measures were intended to stabilize the economy and attract foreign investment, they have led to skyrocketing inflation, with the National Bureau of Statistics reporting a rate of 34.2% in July 2025, the highest in decades. The cost of living has surged, with food prices rising by 40% and transportation costs doubling in many regions.
Poverty levels have also worsened, with the World Bank estimating that 45% of Nigerians—over 100 million people—live below the international poverty line of $2.15 per day. Unemployment, particularly among youth, remains a critical issue, with the unemployment rate hovering at 5.3% according to official figures, though underemployment and informal labor push the real figure much higher. Insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and separatist agitations, continues to plague the northern and southeastern regions, undermining economic activity and displacing communities.
Atiku’s reference to “mega-scale thievery” and “lack of accountability” taps into widespread public frustration with corruption, a persistent challenge in Nigeria. Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index ranked Nigeria 150th out of 180 countries in 2024, reflecting ongoing issues with graft and mismanagement. High-profile scandals, such as allegations of misappropriated funds in government agencies, have fueled distrust in the Tinubu administration, providing fertile ground for Atiku’s campaign promises of reform and accountability.
The ADC’s Strategy: Building a Grassroots Movement
The ADC’s emergence as a potential third force in Nigerian politics is a significant development, particularly given the country’s history of two-party dominance. The PDP and APC have alternated power since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, but both have faced criticism for failing to address systemic issues like poverty, infrastructure decay, and insecurity. The ADC, with its focus on inclusivity and reform, aims to capitalize on this discontent by building a broad-based coalition that appeals to disaffected voters, particularly youth and the middle class.
Atiku’s role as a leading figure in the ADC coalition positions him as a unifying force, capable of bridging regional and ethnic divides. His experience as Vice President from 1999 to 2007, during which he oversaw economic reforms and privatization efforts, lends credibility to his leadership. However, the ADC faces significant challenges, including limited financial resources, weaker grassroots structures compared to the PDP and APC, and the need to build name recognition among voters. Atiku’s assertion that the coalition will “shock the world” suggests a strategy focused on mobilizing new voters, leveraging social media, and forming alliances with other opposition groups.
The ADC’s performance in the recent by-elections, while underwhelming, provides lessons for the party’s 2027 strategy. By-elections, often held in specific constituencies to fill vacant seats, are typically dominated by established parties with strong local networks. The ADC’s limited impact reflects its nascent stage, but Atiku’s optimism suggests a long-term vision of building momentum through community engagement, policy advocacy, and high-profile defections. The party’s ability to attract “heavyweight politicians” in recent months is a promising sign, as these figures bring experience, networks, and visibility to the coalition.
Atiku’s Political Journey: A Study in Resilience
Atiku Abubakar’s decision to contest the 2027 election is the latest chapter in a political career defined by persistence and adaptability. Born on November 25, 1946, in Jada, Adamawa State, Atiku rose from humble beginnings to become one of Nigeria’s most influential politicians. His early career in the Nigeria Customs Service, where he served for 20 years and retired as a Deputy Director, provided the foundation for his wealth and political ambitions. Entering politics in the 1980s, he joined the PDP and served as Vice President under President Olusegun Obasanjo, a tenure marked by economic reforms but also by tensions with Obasanjo over leadership and policy differences.
Atiku’s presidential ambitions began in 1993, when he contested the Social Democratic Party (SDP) primaries, and continued through multiple attempts in 2007, 2019, and 2023. His 2019 campaign, which saw him challenge incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari, was notable for its focus on restructuring and economic liberalization, themes that remain central to his 2027 platform. Despite losing to Buhari, Atiku’s performance demonstrated his ability to galvanize support across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
His departure from the PDP in 2025, after years of internal party strife, reflects a strategic calculation that the party’s internal divisions and declining popularity limit its viability as a vehicle for his ambitions. The ADC, with its fresh branding and reformist agenda, offers Atiku a new platform to pursue his vision of a “reclaimed and reconstructed” Nigeria. However, his age—approaching 80 in 2027—remains a point of contention, with critics arguing that younger leaders should take the helm. Atiku’s supporters, however, counter that his experience and institutional knowledge are unmatched, making him uniquely qualified to navigate Nigeria’s complex challenges.
The Road to 2027: Challenges and Opportunities
As Atiku prepares for the 2027 election, he faces a formidable set of challenges. The APC, led by President Tinubu, benefits from incumbency, with access to state resources and a well-established political machine. The PDP, despite its internal struggles, remains a significant force, particularly in southern and central Nigeria. Atiku’s ability to position the ADC as a credible alternative will depend on building a robust grassroots network, securing funding, and crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with voters.
The economic and social challenges facing Nigeria present both obstacles and opportunities. The high cost of living, insecurity, and unemployment provide fertile ground for Atiku’s message of reform and accountability, but they also raise expectations for tangible solutions. His campaign will need to articulate clear policies on job creation, poverty alleviation, and anti-corruption, while avoiding the pitfalls of vague promises that have undermined public trust in politicians.
Atiku’s alignment with the ADC also offers an opportunity to tap into Nigeria’s youth demographic, which constitutes over 60% of the population. The 2023 election saw significant youth engagement, with candidates like Peter Obi of the Labour Party galvanizing young voters through social media and grassroots campaigns. Atiku and the ADC could adopt a similar strategy, leveraging platforms like X to connect with tech-savvy voters and promote their vision of a new Nigeria.
Broader Implications for Nigeria’s Political Landscape
Atiku’s announcement and the rise of the ADC have broader implications for Nigeria’s political future. The emergence of a viable third force could challenge the PDP-APC duopoly, forcing both parties to address voter concerns more effectively. It could also encourage other opposition groups to consolidate, creating a more competitive electoral environment. However, the risk of fragmentation remains, as a divided opposition could inadvertently strengthen the APC’s hold on power.
The focus on accountability and anti-corruption aligns with global trends toward transparency and governance reform. Nigeria’s challenges, from economic stagnation to insecurity, are not unique but reflect broader issues facing many African nations. Atiku’s campaign could draw inspiration from successful reform movements in countries like Ghana or Kenya, where opposition coalitions have disrupted entrenched political systems.
Conclusion: A Vision for a New Nigeria
Atiku Abubakar’s declaration to contest the 2027 presidential election, announced on August 24, 2025, is a defining moment in Nigeria’s political landscape. By aligning with the ADC and championing a vision of reclamation and reconstruction, Atiku is positioning himself as a leader capable of addressing Nigeria’s deep-seated challenges. His critique of the Tinubu administration’s “mega-scale thievery” and “lack of accountability” resonates with a populace frustrated by economic hardship and governance failures, while his defense of the ADC coalition signals a bold attempt to reshape the political order.
As Nigeria approaches 2027, Atiku’s candidacy will test the viability of a third force in a country long dominated by two parties. His ability to mobilize voters, build coalitions, and articulate a clear vision will determine whether the ADC can “shock the world” as he predicts. For now, Atiku’s resolve to rescue Nigeria from “intensive care” serves as a rallying cry for those seeking change, setting the stage for a high-stakes electoral battle that could redefine the nation’s future.
