Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has warned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) against handing its 2027 presidential ticket to candidates driven more by hype than proven leadership capacity.
In a statement released through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said the country’s worsening economic and security situation demands a leader with practical governance experience and the ability to take charge immediately after assuming office.
He argued that Nigeria’s current realities leave no room for trial-and-error leadership, stressing that the next president must possess the competence, political depth, and national appeal required to stabilise the country.
According to him, the ADC should focus on presenting a candidate capable of winning elections and governing effectively, rather than one sustained mainly by publicity or online excitement.
“Elections are not won on social media enthusiasm alone. Governance is not performance art. The presidency is not a platform for improvisation,” the statement read.
Atiku maintained that the country is grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, institutional decline, and mounting public frustration, adding that only experienced leadership can successfully confront such challenges.
He urged party delegates to carefully assess candidates based on governance record, coalition-building ability, and national acceptability ahead of the 2027 election.
The former presidential candidate also defended his own credentials, highlighting his role in economic reforms and fiscal policies implemented during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007.
Atiku further insisted that defeating an incumbent administration would require more than emotional appeal, noting that political structure, resilience, and strategic alliances would play a decisive role in the next presidential contest.
“This is not a season for political experimentation. Nigeria cannot afford a learning-on-the-job presidency,” he added.
About the Author
