Atiku Abubakar Claims Court Ruling Aims to Undermine His Support Ahead of 2027 Elections

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of trying to undermine his presidential ambitions with a recent court ruling. He claims the decision from the Federal High Court regarding the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is part of a strategy to weaken his support in Northern Nigeria.

Atiku made these comments after thousands of supporters welcomed him in Sokoto for the launch of the ADC campaign. He believes the timing of the court ruling, which came just a day later, is intended to disrupt his campaign’s momentum and limit the party’s influence as the 2027 elections approach.

In a statement from Phrank Shaibu, the Director of Strategic Communication for the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku emphasized that the ruling would not stop the party’s efforts or lessen its appeal. He noted that the large turnout in Sokoto reflects a widespread desire for change among Nigerians facing economic difficulties.

Atiku rejected the notion that his candidacy is only for the North, stating that the economic challenges affect all Nigerians. He insisted that his campaign message is relevant across the country, saying, “Hunger and hardship do not respect regional boundaries.” He believes that support for his campaign will grow beyond the North.

On the legal front, Atiku questioned why a new case was filed to revisit a leadership dispute that had already been resolved by a previous court ruling. He plans to challenge this new case in the Court of Appeal, calling it a deliberate attempt to bypass the earlier decision.

Atiku urged ADC supporters to remain peaceful and committed to the campaign, stating that their mission to improve the lives of Nigerians will continue despite the challenges. He encouraged supporters to spread the party’s message widely as they move forward with their campaign.