Atiku: Tinubu Cannot Use Courts to Escape Nigerians’ Verdict at Ballot
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that he remains in the 2027 presidential race, insisting that no court ruling, political pressure or intimidation will prevent him from contesting the election.
Atiku made the declaration in a statement issued in Sokoto on Friday, November 6, 2026, in response to the latest court ruling affecting the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and his presidential candidacy.
Titled “Bola Cannot Use the Courts to Escape the People’s Verdict; We Are on the Ballot,” the former vice president urged Nigerians not to mistake the court ruling for the will of the electorate, maintaining that the people must be allowed to determine the country’s political future through a free and fair election.
He accused the ruling government of deploying political pressure, courtroom manoeuvres and other tactics to weaken opposition parties and undermine democratic competition, alleging that attempts were also being made to compromise the voters’ register through AI-generated photographs, false names and fictitious identities.
Atiku argued that the alleged actions were aimed at making genuine electoral competition impossible and pushing Nigeria towards a one-party state.
The ADC presidential candidate also criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the economic situation, blaming its policies for rising food and fuel prices, the depreciation of the naira, factory closures and increasing hardship among Nigerians.
He further lamented the worsening insecurity in the country, saying banditry and kidnapping continued to threaten communities, while young Nigerians increasingly sought opportunities abroad.
Addressing his supporters, Atiku urged them not to lose hope or surrender their democratic rights, describing their votes as the instrument through which they could reclaim the country.
“I am in this race. I am not going anywhere. We will be on the ballot. No threat, blackmail or court manoeuvre will make me abandon you or the cause we share,” he declared.
He vowed that his campaign would continue despite the legal and political challenges, insisting that Nigerians deserved an open democratic system where multiple parties could compete freely.
Atiku also challenged those in power to demonstrate confidence in their political strength and performance by allowing a credible electoral contest.
“Let me say this plainly: Bola cannot use the courts to escape the judgment of Nigerians at the ballot box,” he stated.
He called on Nigerians to remain calm, united and resolute, pledging to continue campaigning on the cost of living and other issues affecting ordinary citizens.
