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By Myke Agunwa, Abuja
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has dismissed reports suggesting that he promised to prioritise Yoruba interests if he emerges as the next president in 2027.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, described the claims as “false, mischievous, and the handiwork of political propagandists bent on sowing division among Nigerians.”
He stressed that Atiku has never spoken of privileging any ethnic group above others, insisting that his principal remains committed to the unity, stability, and equitable development of Nigeria.
“The former Vice President did not, at any time, vow to place the Yoruba interest above the collective interest of Nigerians. This is a fabrication circulated by desperate opponents who thrive on fake news and ethnic blackmail,” Ibe said.
He explained that Atiku’s long-standing political philosophy is built on inclusivity, power-sharing, and strengthening national cohesion. According to him, Atiku has consistently advocated restructuring, fiscal federalism, and reforms that will guarantee justice and fairness for all citizens, irrespective of region, faith, or tribe.
“Throughout his public service and campaigns, Atiku Abubakar has always emphasized policies that address insecurity, create jobs, boost education, and grow the economy for every Nigerian, not sectional promises. Suggesting otherwise is both irresponsible and diversionary,” he added.
The aide urged Nigerians to disregard the “sponsored falsehood” and focus instead on the substantive issues facing the country. He accused detractors of attempting to drag Atiku into ethnic politics in order to weaken his national appeal ahead of 2027.
“Atiku is a bridge-builder whose politics has never been limited to one region. He has support across Nigeria because people know he stands for fairness and national balance. No amount of propaganda will change that,” Ibe maintained.