Federal High Court judgment invalidating the process that produced him as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate.
Titiansloaded reports that Atiku made his position known in a statement issued in Sokoto on Friday, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of using the judiciary to weaken opposition parties and frustrate political competition.
The statement, titled “Bola Cannot Use the Courts to Escape the People’s Verdict; We Are on the Ballot,” followed Thursday’s ruling declaring the David Mark-led ADC leadership illegal and nullifying its decisions.
Atiku assured supporters that he would not abandon the contest, insisting that no legal or political pressure would force him out of the race.
“I am in this race. I am not going anywhere. We will be on the ballot. No threat, blackmail or court manoeuvre will make me abandon you or the cause we share,” he said.
He also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using intimidation, propaganda and alleged manipulation of voters’ records to undermine opposition parties, warning against moves that could push Nigeria towards a one-party system.
The former vice-president blamed the Tinubu government for worsening economic conditions, citing rising food and fuel prices, the naira’s depreciation, business closures and insecurity. He also expressed concern over the growing number of young Nigerians leaving the country.
Atiku urged Nigerians to defend their democratic rights and challenged the APC to face the electorate in a free and fair election.
“We will resist with all our strength every attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. Nigeria belongs to all its people,” he said.
He maintained that the courts could not shield the President from the judgment voters would deliver at the ballot box.
