Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has debunked reports claiming that he intends to step aside for another presidential aspirant ahead of the 2027 elections, describing the reports as false and misleading.
Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, made the clarification in a statement on Thursday, October 2, 2025, following reactions to the BBC Hausa interview granted by the former Vice President.
According to Ibe, both the video and transcripts of the interview in Hausa and English were reviewed, and “at no point did the former Vice President expressly state, suggest, or even imply that he intends to step down for anyone.”
He explained that Atiku only emphasized the importance of encouraging young people to participate in the presidential race.
“What Atiku Abubakar clearly and unambiguously said was that young people, as well as other prospective presidential aspirants, are free to enter the contest. He further stressed that if a young candidate were to emerge through a competitive primary, he would readily support such a candidate without any hesitation,” the statement read.
Ibe faulted sections of the media for misrepresenting Atiku’s comments, warning against sensationalism and deliberate misinterpretation.
“While interpretative journalism is a legitimate aspect of reporting, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable and must not be encouraged,” he added.
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