Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has pledged his support for whoever emerges as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku, speaking through his representative, Prof. Ola Olateju, during a welcome ceremony for new party members in Lagos on Saturday, stated that he would back the eventual winner of the party’s 2026 presidential primary, whether or not he clinches the ticket himself.

The event marked the official reception of prominent defectors from the Labour Party (LP) and ADC into the coalition party. Welcoming them were the National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola; Senator Kolawole Ogunwale; and Lagos ADC Chairman, Mr. George Ashiru.

Addressing concerns about the party’s presidential ticket, Atiku emphasized that the decision would be made solely by the party through a transparent process.

“It is not something we can decide in advance. Whoever emerges through a free and fair contest will receive our full support,” he said.

He stressed the importance of providing all aspirants with equal opportunities, assuring that no candidate would be imposed.

“All aspirants will have a level playing field. We’re not forcing anyone on the people,” Atiku stated.

He further noted that the chosen candidate would represent the interests of all Nigerians.

Currently, leading figures in the race for the ADC presidential ticket include former governors and past presidential hopefuls – Chibuike Amaechi, Peter Obi, and Atiku Abubakar himself.