Atiku Fires Back at Age Critics, Defends 2027 Presidential Ambition and Opposition Coalition

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed growing concerns over his age, insisting that he remains fit, energized, and capable of providing strong leadership if elected president in the 2027 general elections.

Addressing questions during an interview with BBC Hausa regarding whether his advancing years could affect his stamina to govern for a full four-year term, the former vice president challenged critics raising questions about his readiness. When reminded that he would be approaching 80 years old by the time the next polls arrive, Atiku turned the question back to the interviewer, asking if his physical condition reflects someone approaching that age.

Beyond defending his health and vitality, the veteran politician addressed murmurs within political circles alleging that his ambitions are stalling broad opposition unity against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Atiku firmly denied the claims, describing them as baseless and emphasizing that he was the original convener who laid the foundation for the opposition alliance.

Acknowledging that prominent figures such as Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso have since parted ways with the initial group, Atiku expressed optimism that opposition leaders could still find common ground and form a united front before the 2027 elections.

Atiku also took aim at the economic policies of the current administration, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy. While arguing that deregulation could have been handled without causing widespread hardship, he questioned the transparency behind the savings generated and vowed to bring back the subsidy regime to relieve pressure on ordinary citizens if given the mandate to lead the country.