Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denied reports that he plans to step aside for another presidential aspirant ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement on Thursday, his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, described the claims as a misrepresentation of Atiku’s recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service.
“After a thorough review of both the video and transcripts of the interview – in the original Hausa and the English translation – it is evident that at no point did the former Vice President expressly state, suggest, or even imply that he intends to step down for anyone,” the statement said.
Ibe clarified that Atiku only emphasised that young people and other aspirants were free to contest. He added that Atiku said if a young candidate emerged through a competitive primary, he would fully support that candidate.
“What Atiku Abubakar clearly and unambiguously said was that young people, as well as other prospective presidential aspirants, are free to enter the contest. He further stressed that if a young candidate were to emerge through a competitive primary, he would readily support such a candidate without any hesitation,” Ibe stated.
He criticised what he called “mischievous” reporting: “While interpretative journalism is a legitimate aspect of reporting, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable and must not be encouraged.”
Some media outlets (not PACESETTER) had earlier reported that Atiku told BBC Hausa he would withdraw from the 2027 race if a younger aspirant defeated him to clinch the African Democratic Congress ticket.
Atiku did say he would accept defeat if a younger candidate emerged and that he would support and mentor such a candidate. “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 said.