Akinwunmi Adesina, African Development Bank’s president, has refused to accept the Nigerian presidential nomination forms purchased for him by his supporters under the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.
Mr Adesina, in a statement on Tuesday morning, said he is unable to go into the race because of his commitment to his job as the AFDB boss.
Some Nigerians bought forms for Mr Adesina and urged him to run for president on the back of his economic and social achievements in Nigeria and across the continent.
“I am very touched by all who have gone to great extent, with such huge sacrifices, of their own volition, to consider me worthy to be proposed for potential consideration.
“The coalition groups of youth, women, farmers, physically challenged and well-meaning Nigerians that have done this have expressed their genuine free will, political right, freedom of expression and association for my consideration, with the interest of Nigeria at heart.
“While I am deeply honored, humbled and grateful for all the incredible goodwill, kindness, and confidence, my current responsibilities at this time do not allow me to accept to be considered.
“I remain fully engaged and committed to the mission that Nigeria, Africa and all the non-African shareholders of the African Development Bank have given me for Africa’s development,” Mr Adesina said.