The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in 2023, Atiku Abubakar, has vowed to persist in his bid for the presidency as long as he remains in good health.
Atiku made this declaration during an interview on the Hausa service of the Voice of America in Abuja.
Responding to a question about whether he intends to contest again, Atiku affirmed, “Of course, I will keep contesting again and again as long as I am alive and healthy.
“Even the former US President Abraham Lincoln contested seven times before finally winning.
“However, given the current state of the PDP, it is clear that a single-handed effort will not suffice to win the election. Strong support and collaboration with other parties are required,” he said.
Atiku is anticipated to be 81 years old by the forthcoming presidential election, scheduled for 2027.
It’s worth noting that the former Vice President has made six attempts to secure the presidency. He has appeared as a presidential candidate on three occasions: in 2007, 2019, and 2023.
Drawing inspiration from former United States President Abraham Lincoln, who did not succeed in his initial bid for the presidency, Atiku finds solace.
Regarding the internal challenges within the PDP, Atiku stressed the importance of unity within the party and advocated for forging alliances with other political entities to enhance their chances of winning the presidential election in 2027.
There have also been rumors circulating about Atiku and certain politicians contemplating the formation of a coalition with other political parties.
Last week, Atiku held a meeting with Peter Obi, the presidential candidate from the Labour Party, LP.
The former vice president emphasized, “To anyone speculating about potential discord between myself and Obi, I want to assure you that not even the slightest disagreement will arise between us.”
“Also, we are going to be behind anybody that will be chosen to represent us in the forthcoming elections,” he added.