Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed his intent to continue vying for Nigeria’s presidency as long as his health permits, drawing inspiration from the persistence of former American President Abraham Lincoln, who contested multiple times before his successful bid for the White House.
In an interview with the Hausa service of the Voice of America in Abuja, the 77-year-old affirmed his determination to keep contesting despite previous electoral setbacks.
Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate in the 2019 and 2023 elections, faced defeat against former President Muhammadu Buhari and incumbent President Bola Tinubu in those respective contests.
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Notwithstanding his advancing age, Atiku remains undeterred, asserting his readiness to pursue the presidency until health constraints intervene. He cited Lincoln’s seven attempts before clinching victory, emphasizing resilience in the face of adversity.
Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential race, where he would be 81 years old, Atiku underscored the imperative of collaboration within the opposition ranks for electoral success, acknowledging the need for a united front.
Addressing speculation about potential candidacy shifts within the PDP, Atiku reiterated his commitment to party decisions, affirming his support for a South-Eastern nominee, such as Peter Obi, if the party so chooses. He emphasized adherence to party directives, highlighting his participation in the 2023 contest due to an open field for all party members.
In response to inquiries regarding his meeting with Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, Atiku characterized it as a routine exchange among opposition figures, fostering democratic engagement. He expressed openness to potential mergers among opposition parties, emphasizing the feasibility and benefits of collective action towards shared objectives.
