On November 4, 2026, Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), arrived in Sokoto State to kick-start his party's presidential campaign. He landed at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport at about 1 pm, accompanied by members of his campaign team. The former Vice-President was received by his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, and other notable party leaders.

Atiku's visit to Sokoto State is significant as it marks the beginning of his presidential campaign in the state. The ADC flag-off event was scheduled to take place at the party's state secretariat along Ilorin Road. Thousands of party supporters had gathered at the venue and adjoining roads to welcome Atiku and participate in the campaign event. The supporters were undeterred by the large turnout, demonstrating their enthusiasm for the party.

However, the event was not without controversy. According to one of the supporters, Abubakar Yusuf, the state government had allegedly mobilized personnel of the Sokoto Marshal and the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps to block roads leading to the town. The supporter claimed that the government's move was an attempt to intimidate and discourage party supporters from attending the event.

Despite the alleged attempts to frustrate their movement, the supporters remained determined to participate in the campaign flag-off. They overwhelmed the personnel deployed to block the roads, ensuring that the event went ahead as planned. Atiku's campaign team and party leaders were visibly present, lending credence to the event.

Atiku's running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, and other prominent party leaders, including former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal and former minister Abubakar Malami, were present to receive him. The presence of these high-profile individuals underscored the importance of the event and the party's commitment to its presidential campaign.

The ADC presidential campaign flag-off in Sokoto State is a crucial milestone in Atiku's bid to win the presidency. The event provided an opportunity for the party to engage with supporters, share its vision, and articulate its policies. As the campaign season heats up, Atiku's team is expected to intensify its efforts to win over voters across the country.

The presidential campaign flag-off in Sokoto State is part of Atiku's broader strategy to engage with voters and promote his party's agenda. With the event now underway, attention will shift to the party's next moves and how it plans to build on the momentum generated in Sokoto State.

Key points

  • Atiku Abubakar arrives in Sokoto State for ADC presidential campaign flag-off.
  • The event was attended by thousands of party supporters despite alleged government intimidation.
  • Atiku's team, including Rotimi Amaechi and Aminu Tambuwal, were present at the event.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.