The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to “rescue” Nigeria from what he described as economic hardship, insecurity and political intolerance under the ruling All Progressives Congress government.
In an acceptance speech after emerging as the ADC presidential candidate for the next general elections, Atiku Abubakar expressed appreciation to party members for entrusting him with the party’s ticket, describing the opportunity as a “singular honour.”
He said the party’s primary election reflected internal democracy, unlike what he alleged was happening in the country under the APC-led administration.
“We demonstrated that while democracy is being strangled and squashed by the ruling party and its oppressive and anti-democratic government, democracy is alive and well in the African Democratic Congress,” he said.
The former Vice President alleged that opposition parties across the country were facing crises allegedly engineered by the government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and elements within the judiciary.
Atiku also condemned the alleged detention and harassment of opposition figures, including Nasir El-Rufai, whom he claimed had remained in detention despite court orders granting bail.
According to him, the government was using security agencies and anti-corruption institutions to intimidate opposition politicians into joining the APC.
He warned against any attempt to interfere in the affairs of the ADC or efforts to deregister the party, stressing that such actions would be resisted.
The ADC candidate called on all aspirants and stakeholders within the party to unite ahead of the elections, insisting that no contestant lost in the primary process.
“We have to unite to pull our country and our people out of the destructive grip of a corrupt, incompetent and polarising APC government,” he stated.
Outlining his vision for the country, Atiku said an ADC administration would prioritise security, education, healthcare, economic reforms and equitable power-sharing among Nigeria’s constituent units.
On security, he lamented the worsening insecurity across the country, including attacks on military personnel, and promised to strengthen the armed forces, police and other security agencies through recruitment, improved welfare, training and modern equipment.
He also pledged to implement free and compulsory primary and secondary education, while investing in entrepreneurship, technology and innovation to empower Nigerian youths.
Speaking on the economy, the ADC flagbearer accused the APC government of worsening poverty and mismanaging public resources. He criticised the removal of fuel subsidy without adequate relief measures and condemned what he described as excessive borrowing and lack of accountability in government contracts.
According to him, an ADC-led government would focus on improving electricity supply, attracting investments and creating jobs through economic reforms and incentives.
On healthcare, Atiku promised increased investment in primary healthcare and the establishment of world-class medical facilities across the country to reduce medical tourism.
He further appealed to aggrieved party members and former contenders, including Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, to join hands with him in building the party ahead of the elections.
The ADC candidate assured Nigerians that his administration would provide “renewed action” rather than “meaningless renewed hope,” insisting that the party was prepared to offer accountable leadership and national transformation.
He concluded by urging party supporters to remain united and committed to the task of winning the forthcoming elections and rebuilding the country.
