Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has promised to stop election rigging and make the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) more independent if he becomes president.
Atiku made this promise on Thursday during a speech at the ADC headquarters in Abuja. His speech marked Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
He said he would ensure that results from each polling unit are published quickly. He promised that anyone who breaks electoral laws would be punished, no matter their political party.
Atiku stressed that anyone caught buying votes or changing election results would face serious consequences. He believes every Nigerian's vote should count as it was cast.
He called on Nigerians to protect their votes, stand against intimidation, and carefully question all candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
Atiku encouraged Nigerians to ask for clear plans that they can review and promises that can be measured. "The coming election offers us a peaceful way to choose our course. This country is yours," he said.
If elected, he promised to focus on affordable living and protecting lives as key goals of his government.
He said his administration would work to lower the costs of food, fuel, and electricity while also improving healthcare and education access.
Atiku also vowed to restore security in communities facing insecurity and ensure that public spending is accountable.
He mentioned that government success would be judged by how well Nigerians can afford basic needs and live safely in their neighborhoods.
Atiku said he would introduce a budgeted production subsidy linked to verified local fuel refining, including modular refineries.
He added that imported petrol would not qualify for this subsidy. He explained that the benefits would lead to lower prices at the pump.
"We will publish the costs, independently audit the payments and cut government waste to help fund the programme," Atiku said.
He explained that the idea behind the subsidy is to produce and refine fuel locally, create jobs, and lower the cost of petroleum products.
Atiku promised to work closely with his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, and ADC partners to create policies that make life affordable for Nigerians.
He believes that Nigerians should have access to affordable food, healthcare, education, transportation, and other basic needs for a decent life.
The ADC candidate urged Nigerians to closely examine campaign promises and hold political leaders accountable before, during, and after elections.
He said Nigeria’s independence should ensure political freedom, allowing citizens to ask leaders questions and demand change without fear.
Atiku called for everyone to follow the rule of law, apply justice fairly, and respect lawful appeals in cases involving detained or convicted citizens.
"On this day, I call for the rule of law to be applied fairly in every case," he stated.
He raised concerns about the ongoing detention of Sheikh Sani Khalifa Zaria and Nasir El-Rufai, questioning whether due process was followed.
He also called for respect for Nnamdi Kanu’s right to appeal following his conviction, and he urged that the issues surrounding his case be addressed.
Atiku said his government would focus on creating jobs and sustainable opportunities for young people to help them build better lives.
He believes budgets should clearly outline funded projects, completed programmes, and outstanding obligations.
Atiku urged Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from whoever is elected in the 2027 elections.
His commitment remains focused on making governance responsive to the needs of citizens and protecting democratic institutions and processes.
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