Nigerian opposition leader Atiku Abubakar has confirmed he will continue his presidential campaign despite a court ruling invalidating his candidacy. The court in Abuja annulled decisions made by the chairman of his party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing illegitimacy. Abubakar's party has announced plans to appeal the decision. The development comes as Abubakar, one of the main opponents to President Bola Tinubu, seeks to contest the January presidential election.
Abubakar, 79, who came second in the 2023 election with 29% of the vote, has described the court ruling as a "manipulation" and a "plot" by the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) of President Tinubu. He accused the APC of attempting to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. Abubakar made these comments in a statement, asserting his determination to press on with his campaign.
The court ruling was made on Thursday, with Abubakar's party reacting by stating that the APC was trying to plunge Nigeria into chaos. The party argued that the court decision denied Nigerians the right to freely choose their leaders. Abubakar had held a campaign rally in Kebbi state on Thursday, making no mention of the court ruling.
Abubakar's statement, released on Friday, emphasized his commitment to his campaign, saying "I am in the race. I am not going anywhere." He vowed that no threats or judicial maneuvers would make him abandon his bid or the cause he shares with his supporters. Abubakar is seeking the presidency for the seventh time.
The development has sparked concerns about the potential impact on Nigeria's electoral process. Abubakar's candidacy is seen as a significant challenge to President Tinubu's re-election bid. The APC has not commented on Abubakar's allegations of manipulation.
Abubakar's campaign has been marked by controversy, with his party experiencing internal conflicts. Despite this, he remains a major player in Nigerian politics, having served as vice president from 1999 to 2007.
The court ruling and Abubakar's response have raised questions about the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process. The country's judiciary has been criticized in the past for interfering in electoral matters. Abubakar's determination to continue his campaign has been welcomed by his supporters, who see him as a viable alternative to the ruling party.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar vows to continue his presidential campaign despite a court ruling invalidating his candidacy.
- The court ruling was made on Thursday, with Abubakar's party reacting by accusing the APC of trying to plunge Nigeria into chaos.
- Abubakar's candidacy is seen as a significant challenge to President Tinubu's re-election bid.
