Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reacted to growing concerns about his age as he prepares for another attempt at the Nigerian presidency in the 2027 election.
Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), addressed the issue during a BBC Hausa interview published on Friday.
The interviewer questioned whether Atiku’s age could affect his ability to effectively govern Nigeria for a complete four-year term if elected in 2027. The question came against the backdrop of the fact that he would be approaching 80 by the time Nigerians head to the polls.
Rather than accept the premise of the question, Atiku challenged the suggestion that his age should be a major concern.
Responding to the interviewer, the former vice president asked: “Do I look to you like someone who has reached 80 years of age?”
Atiku initially referenced President Bola Tinubu while discussing the issue before the interviewer pointed out that Tinubu had not yet turned 80.
The exchange has renewed attention on the age debate surrounding Nigeria’s 2027 presidential contest, with Atiku making it clear that he does not believe his age should be used to question his capacity to lead the country.
Atiku Speaks on Opposition Coalition
Beyond the age controversy, Atiku also addressed claims that he has become an obstacle to efforts by opposition politicians to form a strong coalition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The ADC candidate rejected the suggestion, maintaining that he played an important role in bringing members of the opposition together.
According to Atiku, most of the politicians who initially joined the coalition remain committed to the arrangement, although two prominent figures have since moved away from the group.
He identified Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso among those who had departed from the coalition.
Despite the changes within the opposition camp, Atiku indicated that he had not abandoned the possibility of a wider alliance before the 2027 election.
His comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the presidential contest, with opposition parties and politicians continuing to explore possible alliances and strategies to challenge the APC.
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