In a powerful address following his emergence as the African Democratic
Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar delivered a stirring call to action, outlining vision for revitalized Nigeria and sharply criticizing the incumbent All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
Atiku’s speech, imbued with a sense of urgency and determination, highlighted the ADC’s commitment to democratic principles and a comprehensive plan to tackle the nation’s pressing challenges.
He expressed profound appreciation for the privilege of leading the ADC into the
upcoming elections, emphasizing the party’s vibrant internal democracy.
“We demonstrated that while democracy is being strangled and squashed by the ruling party and its oppressive and anti- democratic government, democracy is alive and well in African Democratic Congress,” he stated.
Atiku underscored the party’s commitment to free, fair, and transparent processes for its members.
The former Vice President did not shy away from direct confrontation, accusing the APC government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and elements within the judiciary of undermining opposition parties.
He cited the prolonged detention of
Mallam Nasir El-Rufai as a stark example of political intimidation, calling for an end to such “cruelty” and the abuse of power.
Atiku asserted that the government uses security agencies and anti- corruption bodies to coerce opposition figures into joining the APC, after which “the harassment ceases and the charges against them magically disappear.”
Looking ahead, the former Vice President laid out a detailed agenda focused on critical sectors: Security, Education, the Economy, Healthcare, and Power- Sharing. 
He lamented the pervasive insecurity across the country, criticizing the govt’s failure to protect lives and property.
As an ADC government, he pledged to take decisive action, to strengthening
security forces with massive recruitment, modern equipment, improved welfare, and effective leadership.
On education, Atiku highlighted the alarming statistic of over 20 million out-of-school children, vowing to implement free and compulsory primary and secondary education. He also promised a holistic revival of the educational system, ensuring adequate staffing, infrastructure, and improved teacher welfare.
Economically, he condemned the APC’s
performance, noting the extreme poverty gripping the nation despite claims of growth.
Atiku committed to building an economy that benefits all Nigerians, addressing the energy crisis, removing investment bottlenecks, and creating jobs. He also criticized the govt’s borrowing spree and lack of accountability regarding fuel subsidy savings.
In healthcare, Atiku pointed to the meager capital expenditure in the Federal Ministry of Health as evidence of the government’s neglect.
He pledged massive investments in primary healthcare, properly equipping medical centers of excellence, and incentivizing the private sector to establish world-class medical facilities.Atiku concluded by urging unity within the ADC, extending an invitation to fellow contestants and aggrieved members to join forces.
“This is not the time to celebrate. No
one was defeated because we are one party and we all need to recognise the fierce urgency of the moment,” he declared.
He promised a “renewed action” to repair the damage caused by years of misrule, contrasting it with the APC’s “meaningless renewed hope.”
Atiku’s speech resonated as a powerful plea for national rescue and a promise of accountable leadership for Nigeria’s future.
