Atiku Vows to Keep Contesting Nigerian Presidency as Long as Health Permits

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has announced his intention to continue running for Nigeria’s highest office as long as his health allows. Inspired by the perseverance of former American President Abraham Lincoln, Atiku remains undeterred by past electoral defeats.

“Of course, I will keep contesting again and again as long as I am alive and healthy,” Atiku stated during an interview with the Hausa service of the Voice of America in Abuja.

Atiku, 77, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in both the 2019 and 2023 elections, lost to former President Muhammadu Buhari and current President Bola Tinubu, respectively. Having served as vice president to Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007, Atiku will be 81 by the next presidential election in 2027.

Despite the age factor, Atiku emphasized his commitment to pursuing the presidency, citing Lincoln’s numerous attempts before winning as motivation. He also acknowledged that winning the presidency would require strong support and collaboration with other parties.

“Even the former US President Abraham Lincoln contested seven times before finally winning,” Atiku noted. “However, given the current state of the PDP, it is clear that a single-handed effort will not suffice to win the election. Strong support and collaboration with other parties are required.”

Atiku also expressed his willingness to support the PDP if it decides to nominate a candidate from the South-East, specifically mentioning Peter Obi. “I have said repeatedly and I even said it before the 2023 general elections that if the PDP decides to zone the presidential ticket to the South or South-East specifically, I won’t contest it. As long as it’s the decision of the party, I will abide by it,” he affirmed. “If the party decides that it’s the turn of the South-East and Peter Obi is chosen, I won’t hesitate to support him.”

Regarding his recent meeting with Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Atiku described it as a normal interaction among opposition leaders. He also hinted at the possibility of a merger to achieve common goals. “It’s just a normal friendly meeting that we often have, particularly among us in the opposition parties. Such meetings are healthy for Nigeria’s democracy and in the country’s interest,” he said. “Yes, it’s very much possible. We can merge to achieve a common goal. So, it’s possible, and nothing can stop it if we wish to achieve that.”

As Atiku looks ahead to the future, his unwavering determination and strategic openness to alliances signal a continued presence in Nigeria’s political landscape.