The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has hinted at a possible run for the presidency in 2027.
Although he remains a prominent figure within the PDP, Atiku is believed to have aligned himself with the newly formed coalition centered around the African Democratic Congress (ADC). However, he has yet to make an official announcement regarding his defection from the PDP.
Recently, the ADC coalition announced key leadership appointments, including David Mark as Interim National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as Interim National Secretary, signaling a strategic effort to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the next general elections.
In a message posted on his 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) account, Atiku addressed supporters in Hausa, promising a tough stance against corruption if elected president. He declared, “I swear to God, if elected, whoever steals or engages in any corruption-related activities, we will declare war against them and they must be punished.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has downplayed the coalition’s potential impact on Nigeria’s political landscape. Speaking on Channels Television, Wike criticized opposition politicians, including Atiku, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing them of pursuing personal agendas rather than national interest. These figures are key players in the coalition’s attempt to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Despite widespread speculation describing the coalition’s emergence as a political “tsunami,” Wike expressed confidence in the incumbent government’s policies and showed no concern over the opposition’s new alliance.
This development marks a significant reshuffling in Nigeria’s political arena as opposition leaders rally under the ADC banner to present a united front for the 2027 elections, with anti-corruption and governance reforms at the forefront of their agenda
