ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has advised the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to prioritise competence, structure, and national acceptability over social media popularity as the party prepares for the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku gave the charge on Sunday in Abuja while addressing ADC delegates ahead of its presidential primaries, warning that Nigeria’s current challenges require a candidate with proven governance experience rather than “online enthusiasm.”
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the former vice president said the country cannot afford what he described as a “learning-on-the-job presidency.”
He stressed that the presidency demands tested leadership capacity, not digital popularity, insisting that elections are won through organisation, structure, and broad-based political reach rather than social media engagement.
Atiku also cautioned the party against what he called “political experimentation,” saying the worsening economic hardship, insecurity, debt burden, and institutional decline require urgent and experienced leadership.
According to him, “This is not a season for political experimentation. Nigeria cannot afford a learning-on-the-job presidency.”
READ ALSO: ADC Nullifies Atiku, Lawal Suspension, Blasts Factional Move
Without mentioning any aspirant directly, he argued that the ADC must present a candidate capable of building strong coalitions and defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), in 2027.
He said governance is not performance or popularity-based, but a serious responsibility requiring experience in negotiation, economic management, and crisis handling.
Atiku pointed to his record in government, particularly during the Obasanjo administration, citing economic reforms, privatisation efforts, fiscal discipline, and debt relief negotiations as part of his credentials for national leadership.
He urged delegates to consider electability over sentiment, stressing that the 2027 election would require strategic thinking and nationwide political strength.
“The ADC must think beyond sentiment. It must think about victory, governance, and Nigeria,” he said.
Atiku added that the choice before the party was not about ambition but national survival, urging delegates to focus on leadership that can unify the country and deliver results from day one.