Atiku Sparks Controversy As He Tells ADC Delegates Who To Support Before Primaries

In a statement released on Sunday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku highlighted the country’s worsening economic conditions and institutional weaknesses as key concerns requiring urgent leadership attention.

He stressed that the decision before ADC delegates goes beyond party politics, insisting that Nigeria needs a leader with proven executive experience, economic understanding, and broad national acceptance.

According to him, the country is currently facing severe economic hardship, insecurity, rising debt, and institutional decline, making it dangerous to entrust leadership to inexperienced hands.

Atiku warned that Nigeria cannot afford what he described as a “learning-on-the-job” presidency, arguing that the nation requires a leader who already understands governance as practical responsibility rather than theory.

He said the ideal candidate must have experience in global negotiations, job creation, crisis management, coalition-building, and economic planning.

He added that delegates must decide whether they want to make a symbolic statement or choose a leader capable of governing effectively from day one.

Atiku further urged the ADC to prioritise credibility and preparedness over popularity, noting that governance should not be treated as performance or experimentation.

He stated that past economic reforms and policy decisions credited to his tenure were driven by leadership experience, discipline, and courage.

According to him, defeating an incumbent government would require strategic planning, political strength, and nationwide support built on unity and competence.

He emphasised that the ADC must present a candidate with national appeal, resilience, and the ability to unite diverse political interests into a winning coalition.

Atiku concluded that the moment is critical for Nigeria’s future, insisting that delegates must focus on delivering leadership that offers real solutions rather than political rhetoric.