Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has challenged President Bola Tinubu to seek a fresh mandate through the ballot rather than allow legal disputes to determine the direction of Nigeria’s political contest ahead of the 2027 elections.

Atiku, in a statement issued on Friday, November 6, maintained that the ongoing legal battle involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) would not end his presidential ambition, declaring that he remained committed to the contest, Daily Trust reported.

The former vice-president accused the ruling party of creating obstacles for opposition groups, alleging that political pressure, court proceedings and attempts to manipulate electoral records were being used to limit genuine competition.

He also faulted the Tinubu administration over the country’s economic situation, pointing to the hardship arising from rising living costs, fuel prices, currency depreciation and the difficulties facing businesses. He argued that Nigerians should be allowed to assess the government’s performance at the polls.

His comments followed a Federal High Court judgment in Abuja which nullified the leadership structure of the ADC under Senator David Mark and invalidated decisions taken by the party leadership, including the process that produced Atiku as its presidential candidate.

Despite the legal setback, Atiku urged his supporters to remain engaged, warning that Nigeria’s democracy would be threatened if political competition were reduced to a single dominant party.

He maintained that the electorate, rather than political manoeuvres or court battles, should have the final say in deciding who governs the country.