African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has responded to concerns about his age ahead of the 2027 presidential election. In an interview with BBC Hausa, Atiku asked critics whether he looked like someone approaching 80 years old. This comes as some have raised concerns that his age could affect his ability to provide effective leadership if elected for a four-year term. Atiku's response was in reference to President Bola Tinubu's age.
Atiku referenced President Bola Tinubu's age, saying "You went and voted for someone who is 80, I mean 90 years old. How old is President Bola, 90?" The interviewer corrected him that Tinubu was not yet 80, to which Atiku replied, "Do I look to you like someone who has reached 80 years of age?" This exchange has sparked further debate about the age of politicians in Nigeria and their ability to lead.
Atiku also addressed claims that he had become an obstacle to the opposition coalition. He insisted that he was the one who initiated the alliance aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027. According to Atiku, most of the politicians who started the coalition remained together, while Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso were among those who had left.
Despite some opposition figures leaving the coalition, Atiku expressed confidence that they could still work together to "save this country and its poor citizens." He emphasized that there was still room for the opposition figures to reunite before the election. Atiku's comments come as the opposition seeks to present a united front against the ruling party.
Atiku also criticized the Federal Government's handling of the removal of the petrol subsidy. He questioned what happened to the savings from the policy, saying the funds should have been used to tackle poverty, insecurity, and challenges in education while creating opportunities for young Nigerians. Atiku's comments reflect concerns about the impact of the subsidy removal on Nigerians.
The former vice president promised to restore the petrol subsidy if elected, saying anyone who had stolen money meant for the scheme would be required to refund it. Atiku's pledge has been seen as a move to win over voters who have been affected by the subsidy removal. He also defended his refusal to sign a peace accord involving opposition politicians.
Atiku questioned why the incumbent government was not required to sign the agreement as well. His comments reflect concerns about the neutrality of the peace accord and the role of the government in the electoral process. Atiku's stance has sparked further debate about the need for opposition politicians to sign peace accords ahead of elections.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar dismisses concerns about his age ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
- Atiku criticizes the Federal Government's handling of the petrol subsidy removal.
- Atiku promises to restore the petrol subsidy if elected.
