Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed claims that he intends to step aside for another presidential aspirant ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement released on Thursday by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku described the reports as a “misrepresentation” of his recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service.

According to Ibe, a careful review of both the video and transcripts of the interview — in Hausa and English — confirmed that Atiku never stated, suggested, or implied that he would step down for anyone.

“What Atiku Abubakar clearly and unambiguously said was that young people, as well as other prospective presidential aspirants, are free to enter the contest. He further stressed that if a young candidate were to emerge through a competitive primary, he would readily support such a candidate without hesitation,” the statement explained.

The former Vice President, popularly known as Waziri Adamawa, emphasized that while he remains committed to internal democracy, the suggestion that he plans to withdraw from the race is inaccurate.

Atiku maintained that his position reflects his belief in youth participation and inclusiveness, not a personal decision to step down.