Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria, has vowed to continue contesting for the presidency as long as he remains healthy. Speaking during an interview on the Hausa service of the Voice of America in Abuja, Atiku expressed his enduring political ambition.
When asked if he would contest again, Atiku affirmed, “Of course, I will keep contesting again and again as long as I am alive and healthy. Even the former US President Abraham Lincoln contested seven times before finally winning.”
Atiku acknowledged the challenges within his party, stating, “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, who will be 81 by the next presidential election in 2027, has a long history of presidential bids. He has been a presidential candidate on three occasions—2007, 2019, and 2023—and has run for the presidency a total of six times.
Reflecting on his perseverance, Atiku said, “I am consoled by the fact that former United States President Abraham Lincoln did not win the presidential vote on the first time of asking.”
Regarding the crisis within the PDP, Atiku emphasized the need for unity and alliances with other political groups to secure victory in 2027. “The party needs to be united and forge alliances with other political groups to win the presidential election in 2027,” he said.
Speculations have arisen about Atiku forming a coalition with other political parties. Last week, Atiku met with Peter Obi, the presidential candidate from the Labour Party (LP). Addressing concerns about potential disagreements,
“This is to anybody that thinks there is going to be a misunderstanding between me and Obi. Let me assure you that not even a small issue is going to happen between us. Also, we are going to be behind anybody that will be chosen to represent us in the forthcoming elections,” Atiku Stated.
