Atiku Abubakar Intensifies Campaign Against Tinubu

Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate and former Vice President of Nigeria, is intensifying his campaign against incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adopting a confrontational approach. Abubakar's campaign slogan, which includes heckling Tinubu, reflects his determination to unseat the president.

However, his history of splitting the opposition raises concerns about his ability to unify voters. Abubakar has sought the presidency multiple times since 2007, and as he approaches his 80th birthday in November 2026, questions arise about whether his experience could be better utilized in mentoring younger leaders.

The North–South rotation principle complicates his candidacy, as many Nigerians expect the presidency to shift south after eight years under President Muhammadu Buhari. The Peoples Democratic Party's decision to nominate Abubakar while retaining a northern national chairman has led to disputes regarding regional balance, which remain unresolved as the election approaches.