2027: Tinubu, APC Will Face Nigerians at the Polls — Atiku

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has declared that the 2027 presidential election will be a direct confrontation between President Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Nigerian people.

In a statement issued by his campaign office, Atiku made the remark while reacting to reports of political realignments, describing defections as a recurring feature of Nigeria’s democratic process. He maintained that every politician has the constitutional right to choose their political path, including members of his own family.

According to him, anyone — including his son — who decides to stand with Nigerians rather than the APC is choosing patriotism over personal gain.

The former vice president dismissed the recent wave of defections by opposition governors as a sign not of the APC’s growing popularity, but of what he termed an atmosphere of intimidation. He accused the Tinubu administration of deploying state institutions to pressure political opponents and push the country towards a one-party system.

“This government fears accountability. It fears credible elections. It fears the people,” he stated.

Atiku further argued that political manoeuvres cannot obscure the harsh realities confronting citizens, including rising hunger, deepening poverty, worsening insecurity, and high unemployment. He blamed the situation on what he described as failed economic policies under the current administration.

“Governors may defect for personal survival. Nigerians are defecting in their millions because they want survival. What will the APC campaign on — hunger, hardship, hopelessness?” he queried.

He urged Nigerians not to equate defections with genuine public support, insisting that the ruling party lacks tangible achievements to present to voters.

Atiku also cautioned citizens against selling their votes in the next general election, stressing that ultimate political power resides with the electorate.

“Do not trade your future. Do not mortgage your children’s tomorrow. In 2027, the people will have their say, and their will shall prevail,” he said.