‘They’re Coming for Us’: Atiku Alleges Plot to Block ADC From 2027 Election

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has alleged that there are coordinated efforts to prevent his party from participating in the 2027 general election.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku claimed he had received credible information suggesting that political and legal measures were being deployed to keep the ADC off the ballot ahead of next year's polls.

He described the alleged moves as "a coordinated onslaught by anti-democratic elements within the ruling party."

"We are fully aware of their plots. While they seek to sow confusion within the opposition, we know their real target is the ADC because it represents the most credible alternative. If the All Progressives Congress (APC) is truly confident in its popularity, why is it so terrified of the ADC?" Atiku said.

The former vice president alleged that institutions expected to remain politically neutral were increasingly being drawn into partisan contests, while frivolous lawsuits, administrative actions and behind-the-scenes political pressure were being used to weaken opposition parties.

He further accused the ruling establishment of focusing on political survival instead of addressing Nigeria's pressing socio-economic challenges, including inflation, insecurity, unemployment and the rising cost of living.

According to Atiku, any attempt to stop the ADC from participating in the 2027 elections would amount to a serious attack on Nigeria's constitutional democracy.

"The ballot is sacred, and every attempt to tamper with it is an attack on the Republic itself. The desire for change cannot be outlawed. Hope cannot be deregistered. Democracy cannot be subverted by administrative fiat," he said.

Atiku also appealed to the judiciary to remain independent and resist external influence, warning that history would judge institutions that compromise justice for political interests.

He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations and members of the international community to remain vigilant against any actions capable of undermining the credibility of the 2027 electoral process.

"We are placing Nigerians on notice because democracy flourishes only when citizens refuse to be indifferent. Eternal vigilance remains the price of liberty," he added.

The latest allegation comes amid heightened political tension following recent legal disputes involving opposition parties, including court cases affecting the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Opposition leaders have repeatedly expressed concerns about what they describe as attempts to narrow Nigeria's democratic space ahead of the 2027 general election.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has not responded to Atiku's latest allegations. INEC has also not commented on the claims.