Atiku Abubakar's Lobbying Move Criticized Ahead of 2027

Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, has reportedly decided to hire a Washington lobbying firm to investigate President Bola Tinubu's past dealings, a move that has drawn criticism from legal practitioner Titilope Anifowose. Anifowose described this decision as a worrying political precedent and emphasized the importance of distinguishing between allegations and proven facts.

She noted that the 12-month lobbying contract is recorded under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act. Anifowose urged Atiku to focus on presenting a clear vision for Nigeria's economy, security, and national development rather than investing in foreign lobbying efforts.

She stated that the 2027 election should be a referendum on competing visions for Nigeria, not on who can hire the more expensive lobbyist. Atiku was ratified as the presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress on May 29, 2026, after resigning from the African Democratic Congress on May 2, 2026.