Atiku Abubakar Alleges Plot to Bar Opposition Party from 2027 Nigerian Elections

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised concerns about a new plot to prevent the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from participating in the 2027 general elections. Abubakar, who is the presidential candidate for the ADC, alleges that individuals within the ruling establishment are orchestrating political and legal strategies to keep his party off the ballot.

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We are fully aware of their plots. While they seek to sow confusion within the opposition, we know their real target is the ADC because it represents the most credible alternative.

In a statement issued on Monday, Abubakar's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, revealed that "credible information" suggests a coordinated effort to disenfranchise the ADC. Abubakar asserts that this alleged move is part of a broader campaign to weaken the opposition and restrict Nigerians' freedom to choose their leaders.

"We are fully aware of their plots," Abubakar stated, adding that while the opposition seeks to create confusion, the ADC is the "most credible alternative." He urged Nigerians, regardless of their political leanings, to resist what he described as the ruling All Progressives Congress's (APC) attempts to dictate which opposition parties are allowed to compete.

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Our message to the APC and the hooded men plotting in dark chambers is simple: you may conspire, but you will not succeed.

Abubakar questioned the APC's alleged fear of the ADC, asking, "If the APC is truly confident in its popularity, why is it so terrified of the ADC?" While expressing hope that the alleged plot will not materialize, he noted that recent political developments make such warnings difficult to dismiss.

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If the APC is truly confident in its popularity, why is it so terrified of the ADC?

He further accused the ruling party of prioritizing political battles over governance, especially amid Nigeria's pressing economic and security challenges. Abubakar claimed that the focus on silencing opposition has overshadowed critical issues like hunger, inflation, unemployment, and insecurity, suggesting that public officials are more concerned with political survival than national well-being.

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The pattern has become all too familiar. First, institutions that ought to be neutral are drawn into partisan contests. Then, frivolous litigations suddenly gain unusual momentum. Administrative powers are selectively deployed. Political pressure is mounted behind closed doors. Before long, democracy itself becomes the casualty.