Atiku Abubakar, the 2027 presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has formally kicked off his election campaign in Sokoto State, pledging to prioritize national security and solve the various difficulties facing Nigerians if he wins the presidency.
Atiku made the pledge on Wednesday at the party’s presidential campaign rally held at its state secretariat along Ilorin Road in Sokoto metropolis.
The former Vice-President declared that alleged attempts to frustrate the party’s campaign would not deter it from pursuing its political ambition or mobilising Nigerians for the 2027 elections.
He said Sokoto was deliberately chosen for the campaign flag-off because of its historical significance and reputation for peace.
Atiku also reaffirmed his commitment to addressing insecurity, recalling promises made during his previous presidential campaigns and expressing determination to fulfil them if given another opportunity to lead the country.
He urged Nigerians to support the ADC and turn out in large numbers on election day to vote for the party.
The rally attracted a large crowd of supporters from different parts of Sokoto State and other locations, with chants of “Tinubu Must Go” echoing across the venue as party faithful expressed opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Atiku arrived at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto, at about 1pm, accompanied by members of his campaign delegation.
He was received by his running mate, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami; and other party leaders.
The campaign flag-off came amid political tension following allegations by the ADC that the Sokoto State Government and security operatives were attempting to frustrate its activities.
Atiku had earlier accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of allegedly recruiting protesters to disrupt the rally and create conditions for the imposition of a curfew.
The DSS subsequently ordered an investigation into the allegation, while maintaining that its operatives had provided security protection to political actors across party lines.
The Service also cited the evacuation of the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto, Manir Dan’iya, to safety after an attack on October 31.
The campaign rally marks the formal commencement of Atiku’s presidential campaign activities in Sokoto as the ADC intensifies its mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
What You Should Know
Atiku Abubakar has moved his 2027 presidential ambitions to a new platform, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), starting his campaign in Sokoto. Joined by prominent figures like Rotimi Amaechi and Aminu Tambuwal, Atiku is focusing his message on ending the security crisis and fixing the economy.
- Political Shift: This marks a significant move for Atiku as he leads the ADC, signaling a major realignment in Nigerian politics ahead of the next general elections.
- Positive Impact: This early start gives citizens more time to evaluate alternative leadership options and specific plans for tackling the country’s rising insecurity.
- Potential Concerns: The campaign is already mired in tension following allegations of state-sponsored disruption and friction with security agencies, which could lead to increased political volatility.
