Atiku Abubakar denies stepping down in 2027 race claim

Atiku Abubakar denies stepping down from 2027 presidential race, calling BBC interview misinterpretation. Media aide clarifies his position.

Atiku Abubakar 2027 election stance has been clarified after the former Vice President firmly denied claims that he plans to step aside for a younger presidential aspirant ahead of the 2027 elections.

Also read: Letter of Resignation: Atiku Abubakar’s PDP resignation stuns party over irreconcilable rift

In a statement released on Thursday, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, described the reports as a “misrepresentation” of the former Vice President’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,” Ibe asserted.

He added that Atiku Abubakar was unequivocal in his support for young aspirants entering the race but never indicated a withdrawal from contesting.

“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,” the statement clarified.

The clarification comes in the wake of growing political speculation after a portion of Atiku’s BBC interview went viral, with many interpreting his words as a veiled announcement of his retirement from presidential ambition.

However, his team insists that such interpretations go beyond the scope of responsible journalism.

“While interpretative journalism is a legitimate aspect of reporting, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable and must not be encouraged,” Ibe noted.

Atiku Abubakar, a veteran in Nigeria’s political landscape, has contested for the presidency multiple times and remains a formidable figure ahead of the 2027 polls. His team’s firm rebuttal suggests he has not yet ruled himself out of the race.

The original BBC Hausa interview had quoted Atiku as saying: “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.” However, Ibe insisted this was a hypothetical statement and not an expression of intent to withdraw.

Also read: Atiku Abubakar criticises APC over rising poverty, division

The misunderstanding highlights the power of political messaging — and misinterpretation — as Nigeria builds up to another crucial general election.

Ibrahim Onipede