The 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has vowed to keep contesting for the presidency as long as he remains healthy.
Atiku made this declaration during an interview with the Hausa service of the Voice of America in Abuja.
Drawing a parallel to former United States President Abraham Lincoln, who did not win the presidential vote on his first attempt, Atiku expressed his determination to persist in his political ambitions. “Of course, I will keep contesting again and again as long as I am alive and healthy,” he said.
“Even the former US President Abraham Lincoln contested seven times before finally winning.”
Addressing the internal crisis within the PDP, Atiku emphasized the need for unity and strategic alliances with other political groups to secure a victory in the 2027 presidential election. “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 added.
Atiku, who will be 81 years old when the next presidential election is held in 2027, has a long history of presidential bids. He has contested six times, appearing on the ballot as a candidate in 2007, 2019, and 2023.
This statement comes amid speculation about Atiku forming a coalition with other political parties. Last week, he met with Peter Obi, the presidential candidate from the Labour Party (LP), fueling rumors of potential collaboration.
