Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said his priority is a better Nigeria, not personal ambition to become president.
Abubakar made this known on Saturday in Lagos while speaking at an affirmation ceremony for new defectors into the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Several bigwigs from the PDP and Labour Party formally announced their defection to the ADC at the event.
Represented by Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, Atiku said his decision to join forces with like-minded politicians in the ADC was motivated by a desire for national transformation.
“Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria. It is not about him being president at all costs. It is about having a government that delivers for Nigerians,” Olateju said on his behalf.
He stressed that the ADC should be seen not just as a political party but as “a movement of Nigerians for a better Nigeria.”
According to him, the movement seeks to reposition the country and usher in a new beginning.
“It’s not politics as usual. We need a new beginning in Nigeria, and that’s what Atiku is championing. The must is not for him to be president, but for Nigeria to work for its people,” he added.
Addressing the hardship Nigerians face following the removal of fuel subsidy and rising inflation, Atiku maintained that good leadership could steer the country toward security, prosperity, and growth.
On the ADC’s 2027 presidential ticket, Atiku said the decision would rest with party members.
“Whoever emerges through a free and fair contest will have our full support. We are not imposing anyone. The point is a better Nigeria, not Atiku for president at all costs, not Obi for president at all costs,” he stated.
Some of the notable defectors at the event include PDP Board of Trustees member Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu; former Lagos PDP chairmen, Chief Muritala Ashorobi and retired Capt. Tunji Shelle; Lagos Central PDP Vice Chairman; and former PDP Youth Leader, Mr. Tai Benedict.
They were received by top ADC chieftains, including National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Kolawole Ogunwale, and Lagos State ADC Chairman, George Ashiru.
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