Politics

Atiku Hints at 2027 Presidential Run, Vows to Punish Corruption

By Balogun Sade

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has signaled his intention to contest in Nigeria's 2027 presidential election, vowing to wage war against corruption if elected to office.

Speaking in Hausa language to a group of supporters, Atiku made a firm commitment to tackle corruption head-on. "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," he declared in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter).

Atiku, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform, is now believed to be aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition. While he has not officially announced his defection from PDP, he has emerged as a key figure in the opposition coalition.

The coalition recently appointed former Senate President David Mark as its Interim National Chairman and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as Interim National Secretary, among other key positions.

Political Realignment Ahead of 2027

Atiku's apparent shift to the ADC coalition represents a significant realignment in Nigeria's political landscape. His move comes amid reports of deepening crisis within the PDP, with several prominent members reportedly leaving the party.

The former Vice President's anti-corruption stance appears central to his emerging campaign message, positioning himself as a reformer in a country where corruption remains a major challenge to development and good governance.

Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-South region has reportedly adopted President Bola Tinubu as its sole candidate for the 2027 election, setting the stage for what could be another fierce electoral contest.

Atiku's statement has drawn reactions from various political quarters, including from allies of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who warned that the former Vice President and other coalition members would face opposition when the time comes.

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