The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has accused those in power of stealing Nigeria’s election and economy as he prepares for the 2027 general election.
Atiku made the remarks in a video shared on his X account while addressing supporters. He said the ADC was facing a political establishment he described as “thieves.”
“We are competing with thieves. They stole the election. Now they have stolen the economy. They have stolen everything.”
The former Vice President also renewed his commitment to restore fuel subsidy if elected president in 2027.
Atiku said his position on subsidy had not changed, dismissing comments attributed to his media aide, Paul Ibe, which suggested that an Atiku administration could initially restore the subsidy before eventually phasing it out. Atiku said Ibe was not speaking on his authority.
According to Atiku, Nigeria has enough resources to protect its citizens from severe economic hardship. He argued that the removal of fuel subsidy had contributed to increased poverty and rising costs of transportation and food.
He has said his proposed intervention would be a targeted subsidy focused on reducing energy and transportation costs while supporting domestic production, rather than simply returning to the previous import-driven subsidy system.
The subsidy debate is expected to remain a major issue in the 2027 presidential campaign, particularly as political parties present competing solutions to Nigeria’s cost-of-living crisis.
Atiku’s comments also come as the ADC intensifies its campaign against the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, with economic policies, insecurity and governance expected to dominate the political contest.
The 2027 election is already shaping up as a major battle among opposition forces and the ruling party, with Atiku positioning the ADC as an alternative to the current administration.
