I won’t force myself on Nigerians – Atiku

By Paul Dada

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar says his desire for a better Nigeria trumps a dream to become the President of the country.

Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, said this on Saturday during the official defection ceremony of several political figures to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos.

The former Nigerian Vice-President was represented at the event by Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State.

Speaking on Atiku’s behalf.  Olateju said, “Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria. It’s not about him being president. It’s about establishing a government that works for Nigerians. That’s why some of us are with him — not because Atiku must be president at all costs.”

The former vice president through Olateju,  said that the ADC represented a fresh start in Nigeria’s political landscape, focused on delivering real change rather than continuing politics as usual.

“We need a new beginning in Nigeria, and that’s what Atiku is championing. The real goal is national development, not personal ambition,” he said.

On the 2027 presidential election, he emphasized that the ADC’s candidate would emerge through a transparent and democratic process.

“Whoever emerges through a free and fair process will have our full support,” he said.

“The focus is not ‘Atiku for president’ or ‘Obi for president’ at all costs. It’s about the best candidate representing the hopes of Nigerians,” he added.

Several prominent political figures from the PDP and Labour Party officially joined the ADC at the event. They included PDP Board of Trustees member Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu, former Lagos PDP chairmen Chief Muritala Ashorobi and Capt. Tunji Shelle (rtd.), former PDP youth leader Mr. Tai Benedict, and PDP Vice Chairman (Lagos Central).

The new members were welcomed by ADC national leaders, including National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Kolawole Ogunwale, and Lagos State ADC Chairman Mr. George Ashiru.