Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on Nigerians to participate massively in the 2027 general election, emphasizing the importance of this defining moment in the country's democratic process. Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made this appeal during the flag-off of his presidential campaign in Sokoto State. He stressed that Nigerians should approach the election with the seriousness and urgency of Judgment Day.
Atiku expressed concerns that members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were allegedly buying Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in northern Nigeria to manipulate the electoral process. He warned that low voter turnout could create a false impression that the ADC lacked sufficient support in the North. Atiku urged opposition supporters to turn out in large numbers to prevent electoral manipulation and ensure a fair outcome.
During the campaign rally at the ADC State Secretariat in Sokoto, Atiku emphasized the need for Nigerians to not only vote but also protect their votes until they are secured. He encouraged supporters to escort their votes to ensure their safety. Atiku's message was clear: every vote counts, and every citizen has a responsibility to participate in the electoral process.
Sokoto State was chosen as the starting point for Atiku's campaign due to its historical and religious significance. Atiku described Sokoto as a centre of peace and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria, making it an ideal location to demonstrate the ADC's commitment to national unity. The decision to begin the campaign in Sokoto was also intended to showcase the party's dedication to peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of different religious backgrounds.
Atiku outlined some of the promises of an ADC-led government, including addressing insecurity, reopening Nigeria's land borders, and making religious pilgrimages more affordable for citizens. He specifically promised to make both Hajj and Christian pilgrimages affordable for Nigerians while tackling security challenges affecting communities across the country. Atiku also expressed sympathy for families who had lost loved ones in various attacks and violent incidents.
The Sokoto State Coordinator of the ADC presidential campaign, Senator Ibrahim Abdullahi Lamido, described Sokoto as a one-party state, claiming that the ADC enjoyed overwhelming support in the state. Lamido urged party members, supporters, and stakeholders to mobilize voters and ensure that all ADC candidates received massive support in the forthcoming elections. Atiku's visit to Sokoto followed the postponement of the campaign flag-off, which was initially scheduled for October 31.
The ADC Presidential Campaign Council in Sokoto apologized for the postponement, citing the need to address planning and coordination issues. The council's Director-General, Bello Aliyu Goronyo, explained that the decision was taken to ensure the successful conduct of the campaign flag-off. Atiku's call to action has resonated with many Nigerians, who are eager to see a change in the country's political landscape.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar urges Nigerians to vote in large numbers in the 2027 general election.
- Atiku alleges APC is buying PVCs to manipulate the electoral process.
- Atiku outlines ADC's promises, including addressing insecurity and making pilgrimages more affordable.
