Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has alleged that fresh political and legal moves are underway to prevent the ADC from participating in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku claimed he had received credible information indicating that certain forces were working to sideline the opposition party from the electoral process.
According to the former presidential candidate, elements within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are allegedly orchestrating efforts to ensure the ADC does not appear on the ballot in 2027.
“We are fully aware of their plots. While they seek to sow confusion within the opposition, we know their real target is the ADC because it represents the most credible alternative,” Atiku said.
He urged Nigerians to resist any attempt to determine which opposition parties should participate in the elections, insisting that democracy must be decided by voters rather than through political or legal manoeuvres.
“Our message to the APC and the hooded men plotting in dark chambers is simple: you may conspire, but you will not succeed. If the APC is truly confident in its popularity, why is it so terrified of the ADC?” he asked.
Atiku argued that recent political developments suggest a pattern in which institutions meant to remain neutral are allegedly drawn into partisan battles through litigation, administrative actions and political pressure.
“The pattern has become all too familiar. First, institutions that ought to be neutral are drawn into partisan contests. Then, frivolous litigations suddenly gain unusual momentum. Administrative powers are selectively deployed. Political pressure is mounted behind closed doors. Before long, democracy itself becomes the casualty,” he said.
The former vice president also accused the ruling party of prioritising political survival over governance, saying the country’s economic and security challenges deserve greater attention than what he described as efforts to weaken the opposition.
“At a time when Nigerians are battling hunger, inflation, unemployment, insecurity and collapsing purchasing power, those entrusted with public office appear preoccupied with political survival rather than national survival,” he stated.
Atiku maintained that if the APC believes it enjoys widespread public support, it should compete through the ballot box rather than through what he called institutional intimidation.
He also appealed to the judiciary, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations and the international community to remain vigilant and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
“The ballot is sacred, and every attempt to tamper with it is an attack on the Republic itself. The desire for change cannot be outlawed. Hope cannot be deregistered. Democracy cannot be subverted by administrative fiat,” he added.
