My presidential ambition not do or die affair – Atiku

Former Nigeria’s Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, says he is more interested in a better Nigeria than occupying the office of president.

Speaking through Prof. Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Owo, at an African Democratic Congress (ADC) affirmation event in Lagos on Saturday, Abubakar stressed that his political ambition is focused on building a nation that works for its people.

“Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria. So, it’s not about him being the president. It’s about having a better government, a good government, that will be able to deliver for Nigerians,” Olateju said on his behalf.

The former PDP presidential candidate, who recently left the party alongside other opposition figures to join the ADC, said his move was part of a broader coalition determined to reposition the country.

“It’s not a personal thing for him and that’s why some of us are with him. It’s not about Atiku must be president at all costs,” Olateju added. “ADC, to us, is not a political party. It is a movement, a movement of Nigerians for a better Nigeria.”

Abubakar emphasized that Nigeria needs a “new beginning,” citing rising inflation and hardship triggered by the fuel subsidy removal. He said a coalition of like-minded leaders could offer the good governance Nigerians deserve.

“It’s no longer politics as usual. It’s a new beginning… The must there is for him to see Nigeria deliver as wished by all. We want Nigeria to be able to deliver. We want Nigeria to be able to take care of Nigerians,” he said.

On the question of who would fly ADC’s presidential flag in 2027, Abubakar said the choice would be made through an open and democratic process.

“It is not a thing we can pre-determine. Whoever emerges through free and fair contests, we are all going to support. Everybody has a right to contest… The point is better Nigeria, not Atiku for President at all costs, not Obi for president at all costs,” he said.

Notable PDP and Labour Party leaders joined the ADC during the event, including Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu, Chief Muritala Ashorobi, Retired Capt. Tunji Shelle, Mr. Tai Benedict, and others. They were received by top ADC figures such as National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, Sen. Kolawole Ogunwale, and Lagos ADC Chairman George Ashiru.