The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has reiterated his commitment to “set things right and heal the land” if elected president in 2027.
Atiku made the remarks on Friday during a Democracy Day address delivered in Abuja at an event organised by the Coalition Political Action Committee (COPAC), a civic and political engagement platform linked to the ADC. He was represented at the event by former House of Representatives member Nnenna Ukeje.
The former Vice President said Nigeria’s democratic journey, despite its challenges, should inspire renewed commitment to rebuilding the nation. He urged citizens to defend democratic principles and resist what he described as efforts to silence opposition voices and weaken accountability.
He called for unity, competence, and credible leadership ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that Nigerians must “choose genuine leadership over excuses” to achieve national progress.
Atiku also raised concerns about Nigeria’s economic and security situation, arguing that rising debt levels were straining public finances and limiting investment in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, security, and infrastructure. He warned that insecurity had severely affected schools and communities, placing the future of children at risk.
He pledged that an ADC-led government would take decisive action to address insecurity, reduce the cost-of-living crisis, and restore economic stability. According to him, his administration would prioritise security, agricultural productivity, and social welfare.
“We will confront insecurity decisively… secure our schools, protect our communities, and enable our farmers to feed the nation without fear,” he said.
The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, also expressed optimism about the party’s future, citing increased youth involvement in politics.
Meanwhile, COPAC convener Aminu Datti Ahmad called for greater civic engagement, warning that democracy weakens when citizens disengage from political participation.
The event concluded with a communiqué calling for internal reconciliation within the ADC, stronger coordination of campaign strategies, and efforts to present a unified opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
