Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has told President Bola Tinubu to prepare to leave office after emerging as the presidential flagbearer of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 general election.
Speaking after his emergence as the party’s candidate, Atiku directly addressed Tinubu, saying, “Better pack and go back to Lagos.” The remark, delivered at the ADC national convention, was framed as a message to the incumbent president that the opposition coalition is ready to challenge his re-election bid.
Atiku’s selection as ADC flagbearer follows months of consultations among opposition figures seeking to present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. The former PDP presidential candidate said the coalition was built on a shared assessment that Nigerians are facing economic hardship, insecurity, and weak public services under the current administration.
“We have listened to Nigerians. They are tired of excuses. They want a government that works for them, not one that asks them to endure while a few enjoy,” Atiku said. He argued that the 2027 election would be a referendum on the APC’s handling of inflation, unemployment, and the cost of living, adding that the ADC platform would focus on economic recovery, national unity, and institutional reform.
The “back to Lagos” comment references Tinubu’s political base and residence before becoming president. Atiku used it to suggest that voters would return the presidency to the opposition in 2027. APC officials have not issued a formal response, but party representatives have previously said Tinubu remains focused on delivering on his economic and security agenda.
Political analysts say Atiku’s emergence under the ADC signals a shift in opposition strategy. After contesting under the PDP in 2019 and 2023, his move to the ADC consolidates a broader coalition that includes other former governors, lawmakers, and party defectors. The ADC has historically been a smaller party, but coalition leaders say they intend to use it as a vehicle for a multi-party alliance.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has not yet released the timetable for the 2027 election. Campaign activities are expected to intensify over the next two years, with economic policy, security, and party structures likely to dominate debate.
Atiku closed his acceptance speech by calling on Nigerians to register and vote, saying the election would determine “whether the country continues on its current path or changes course…See More
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