Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has sparked controversy with his latest remarks, declaring that he is “competing with thieves” in the 2027 election.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Abuja, Atiku accused his rivals of looting Nigeria’s economy and manipulating the electoral process. “I am not just running against politicians. I am competing with thieves who have stolen our future,” he said, drawing loud applause from supporters.
Atiku’s comments were widely interpreted as a direct attack on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, President Bola Tinubu, though he did not mention names explicitly.
Atiku reiterated his pledge to restore a targeted fuel subsidy, arguing that Nigeria is wealthy enough to cushion citizens from economic hardship. He claimed that the removal of subsidies under Tinubu’s administration has worsened poverty and inflation.
“Our people are suffering. Fuel prices are unbearable, food costs are rising, and families are struggling. We will bring back a subsidy that benefits the poor, not the corrupt middlemen,” Atiku promised.
In response, Tinubu’s aide, Bayo Onanuga said, dismissed Atiku’s remarks as “politically motivated rhetoric,” insisting that subsidy removal was necessary to stabilize Nigeria’s economy.
Meanwhile, the Civil Society Advocacy groups welcomed Atiku’s anti‑corruption stance but cautioned that promises must be backed by credible reforms.
On the other hand, opposition figures expressed solidarity, saying Atiku’s comments reflect widespread frustration with governance.
Political analyst Dr. Amina Yusuf noted that Atiku’s rhetoric is designed to energize his base and frame the election as a moral battle. “By branding rivals as thieves, he positions himself as the candidate of integrity. But the challenge will be convincing undecided voters that his promises are realistic,” she said.
Economists, however, warned that restoring subsidies could strain Nigeria’s finances. “Subsidies are costly and prone to abuse. Without strong oversight, Atiku’s plan could repeat past mistakes,” said Dr. Chinedu Okeke of Lagos Business School.
Atiku’s remarks highlight the increasingly combative tone of the 2027 campaign season. With over 100 million registered voters and heightened public frustration over insecurity and economic hardship, analysts expect the election to be one of Nigeria’s most contentious in recent history.
As campaigns intensify, Atiku’s strategy appears focused on portraying himself as the anti‑corruption candidate while promising economic relief through subsidies. Whether this message resonates with voters will depend on how effectively he can contrast his vision with that of Tinubu and other contenders.
For now, his declaration that he is “competing with thieves” has set the stage for sharper political debates in the months ahead.
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