Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has refuted claims that he plans to step down for any candidate ahead of the 2027 presidential election. His spokesman, Paul Ibe, issued a statement on Thursday clarifying that Atiku’s recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service was misrepresented by some media outlets.
“It has become necessary to clarify certain misrepresentations arising from the reportage of an interview granted by His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, to the BBC Hausa Service,” Ibe stated.
He emphasized that a thorough review of the interview — both in Hausa and English translation — showed that Atiku never stated, suggested, or implied any intention to withdraw from the race in favor of another candidate.
“What Atiku Abubakar clearly said was that young people and other aspirants are welcome to join the contest. He added that should a young candidate emerge through a credible primary process, he would support them without hesitation,” Ibe explained.
While acknowledging the role of interpretative journalism, Ibe criticized what he described as deliberate misrepresentation. “Stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable and should not be encouraged,” he said.
