The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to engage in a national presidential debate leading up to the 2027 general elections.
However, Atiku emphasized that his participation is contingent on the involvement of Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This stipulation was mentioned in a statement released on Tuesday by his official spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo.
Atiku Advocates for Inclusion of Ruling Party
Okonkwo highlighted the importance of presidential debates as a platform for Nigerians to hear directly from both the ruling party and opposition candidates regarding their policies, programs, and plans for the country. He criticized debates that involve only opposition candidates, labeling such practices as “untenable.”
He also accused the APC-led administration of using these debates to foster divisions among the opposition while evading direct examination by voters. Okonkwo argued that political contests inherently involve both the ruling party and opposition, and debates should mirror this reality.
Atiku’s Conditions for Debate Participation
The former Vice President declared that he would not partake in any debate format that excludes Tinubu and the APC while inviting opposition candidates. According to Okonkwo, Atiku is willing to communicate with Nigerians through interviews, town hall meetings, and press conferences. However, he seeks a presidential debate that allows voters to assess both the ruling party’s track record and the opposition’s policy alternatives.
The statement conveyed: Atiku Abubakar challenges President Bola Tinubu to a national presidential debate. This would offer both the ruling party and the opposition parties a chance to present their policies and strategies to Nigerians, aiding them in making an informed decision for the 2027 elections.
Heightening Political Tensions for 2027
Atiku’s challenge contributes another facet to the intensifying political landscape ahead of the 2027 presidential election. As a prominent figure in the opposition coalition, he aims to promote the ADC as a viable alternative to the ruling APC.
This demand for a direct debate also places Tinubu and the APC under pressure to respond and clarify their stance on participating in a national presidential debate. Given the anticipated focus on issues such as economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, fuel prices, and governance during the 2027 campaign, debates could offer voters vital insights into each candidate’s proposed solutions before casting their votes.
