…urges them to reject vote buying ahead of 2027 polls
By Taiwo Scholarstica
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar has given reasons why he is running to be President of the country.
Addressing young Nigerians at the RiseUpNaija Movement Leadership Retreat in Abuja, Atiku said his ambition to contest the 2027 presidential election is motivated by a desire to improve Nigeria rather than the privileges attached to political office.
The former vice president said he was committed to building a country where leaders are accountable, public institutions are effective and citizens have equal opportunities to achieve their goals.
“I am not seeking office for its privileges. I seek it because I still believe in the Nigeria that is capable of becoming a nation where leadership is accountable, institutions are strong, opportunities are abundant and every citizen, regardless of background, has a fair chance to succeed,” Atiku said.
He urged young Nigerians to take an active role in the 2027 electoral process and resist attempts by politicians to influence their votes through financial inducements.
The former VP further added that the collective power of citizens could determine the outcome of elections if voters participated peacefully, made informed choices and remained committed to protecting the credibility of the electoral process.
He also reflected on his long involvement in Nigeria’s democratic process noting that his years in politics had strengthened his belief that the country could overcome its challenges and fulfil its potential.
He described young Nigerians as one of the country’s greatest assets, but expressed concern that poor governance and limited economic opportunities were preventing many from reaching their full potential.
According to him, the country is home to talented entrepreneurs, professionals, innovators, farmers and skilled workers who continue to demonstrate resilience despite difficult economic conditions.
He, however, lamented the growing number of young graduates struggling to secure employment, entrepreneurs battling high operating costs and professionals seeking opportunities abroad because of limited prospects at home.
The former vice president urged voters to consider competence, character and policy ideas when choosing leaders in 2027 rather than accepting temporary incentives from politicians during campaigns.
The RiseUpNaija Movement comprises young Nigerians from different political parties, including the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party and New Nigeria Peoples Party, among others. The group has declared support for Atiku’s presidential ambition on the ADC platform.
Earlier, Ibrahim-Imam challenged the newly inaugurated state coordinators to expand the movement’s presence nationwide and intensify membership registration ahead of the election.
He said the organisation was targeting 20 million active voters to support Atiku’s presidential campaign and planned to establish a strong presence across the country’s polling units.
Ibrahim-Imam announced a month-long membership registration competition among state chapters, with a prize for the state that records the highest number of new members.