Atiku Urges ADC Delegates to Prioritise Competence Over Social Media Popularity Ahead of 2027 Election

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged delegates of the African Democratic Congress to prioritise competence, experience and national reach when choosing the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku warned against relying on social media popularity and sentiments in selecting a candidate, insisting that Nigeria’s current challenges require an experienced leader capable of governing effectively from day one.

According to the former Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, the ADC must avoid what he described as “political experimentation,” stressing that the country is facing worsening economic hardship, insecurity, rising debt and institutional decline under the current administration.

“This is not a season for political experimentation. Nigeria cannot afford a learning-on-the-job presidency,” Atiku said.

The former vice president also dismissed online popularity as insufficient for winning elections and governing a complex country like Nigeria, arguing that elections are won through political structures, strategy and governance capacity rather than digital enthusiasm.

“Elections are not won on social media enthusiasm alone. Governance is not performance art. The presidency is not a platform for improvisation. The ADC must present to Nigerians its strongest, most credible, most prepared candidate; not merely its loudest,” he stated.

Atiku described the forthcoming presidential race as a defining moment for the country, saying delegates carry a historic responsibility as Nigerians grapple with hardship and uncertainty.

He further argued that the country needs a leader with proven experience in economic management, coalition building and crisis response, adding that the next president must possess the capacity to restore confidence and drive national renewal.