By Olokuta Rofiat
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has intentionally delayed formally declaring his interest in the 2027 presidential election, his media aide has said.
Atiku recently told BBC Hausa that it was “not yet time” to announce his decision, sparking speculation that he might step aside for a younger aspirant.
However, his spokesman, Paul Ibe, clarified in a statement that the interview was misrepresented.
He explained that Atiku’s decision to wait is strategic, aimed at consolidating his political machinery and avoiding premature positioning.
According to Ibe, Atiku is fully committed to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), coalition and is no longer aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He added that the former vice president is focused on building a strong political structure within the coalition before making any formal declaration.
The aide dismissed claims that Atiku plans to abandon his ambition for younger contenders, stressing that while he welcomes healthy competition, he will only step aside if defeated in a transparent primary.
Atiku’s camp maintains that proper timing and strong party structures, rather than an early announcement, will be decisive in giving him an edge ahead of the 2027 general elections.
