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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has revealed why he could not resolve the lingering crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), blaming the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for allegedly sponsoring divisions in the opposition.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Atiku said the APC deliberately used influential PDP members to frustrate internal efforts to reposition the party as a credible alternative.
He stressed that his lack of formal authority in the PDP’s leadership structure limited his ability to act decisively.
“I could have taken bold steps if I were the party’s chairman or secretary, but those in charge had personal interests that did not align with rescuing the PDP,” Atiku explained.
The former presidential candidate dismissed speculations that he was desperate for power, insisting that his focus has always been on salvaging Nigeria from its worsening economic and political challenges.
Atiku also highlighted his involvement in the formation of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which he described as an emerging platform committed to building strong structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Our national leadership is already in place, and we are working on strengthening state and local government organs of the ADC,” he stated.
Turning to Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Atiku expressed disappointment that the country had fallen short of the aspirations of its founding fathers.
He charged the Tinubu-led administration to urgently address national challenges but expressed doubt over the president’s capacity to do so.
According to him, President Bola Tinubu’s abrupt removal of fuel subsidy in 2023 without adequate cushioning measures worsened the economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
“When I was vice president, our government recommended a phased removal of subsidies in four stages, with labour unions and stakeholders fully involved.
“But Tinubu rushed into a full removal, and that is why poverty and suffering have multiplied today,” Atiku said.
He argued that no responsible government implements subsidy removal in one stroke, adding that the policy error has plunged millions of citizens deeper into hardship.