Atiku Abubakar has denied claims that he would step down for a “younger candidate” in the 2027 presidential election.
His spokesman, Paul Ibe, stated on Thursday that Abubakar’s comments were misrepresented, emphasising that it has become necessary to clarify the context of the interview granted by his principal to the BBC Hausa Service contrary to what is being quoted by some sections of the media,” Ibe said
“After a thorough review of both the video and transcripts of the interview – in the original Hausa and the English translation – it is evident that at no point did the former Vice President expressly state, suggest, or even imply that he intends to step down for anyone.
“What Atiku Abubakar clearly and unambiguously said was that young people, as well as other prospective presidential aspirants, are free to enter the contest.
“He further stressed that if a young candidate were to emerge through a competitive primary, he would readily support such a candidate without any hesitation.
Ibe added that while interpretative journalism is a legitimate aspect of reporting, he warned that stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable and must not be encouraged.
“For the record, therefore, the insinuations attributed to Waziri Adamawa from his BBC Hausa interview are inaccurate and do not reflect what he actually said.”
Atiku is expected to pursue the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which opposition leaders have chosen to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC)
