Atiku’s ex-aide, Abbas, emerges ADP presidential candidate

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From Okwe Obi, Abuja

 

A former political aide to the Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, Aliyu Bin Abbas, has emerged as the presidential candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP).

 

 

Abbas, who is the Founder of the National Youth Alliance (NYA), emerged on Saturday morning at the National Convention of the party in Abuja.

A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, said the results were announced at about 5:30 a.m. on Saturday, with the venue erupting in wild jubilation.

He said: “However, for the avoidance of doubt and to clarify the distinct trajectory of this candidacy, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas steps into this race on his own merits and under a completely independent platform.

“While he previously served as a close political aide to Atiku Abubakar (who is also contesting the 2027 presidency under the ADC platform), that administrative chapter formally ended over two years ago, following a widely recognized political divergence, both leaders parted ways, with public consensus affirming that Ambassador Aliyu should chart his own course to champion the cause of the younger generation.

“Therefore, this candidacy is entirely autonomous. It stands fully divorced from the influence of old political blocs, serving neither as a proxy movement nor a strategic alignment with past principals, but as a direct response to the yearning of millions of Nigerian youths seeking fresh, uncompromised leadership.”

Speaking after his declaration, the ADP standard bearer said that a new dawn was set in Nigeria with his emergence.

“This milestone represents more than a political victory; it signifies the emergence of a new generation of leadership committed to national renewal, inclusive governance, economic transformation, and the empowerment of Nigerian youths.

“As Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its history, this development signals the beginning of a movement driven by hope, patriotism, and a collective determination to build a nation that works for all. It is a call to every Nigerian—regardless of ethnicity, religion, region, or political background—to unite behind a common vision of progress, justice, prosperity, and national greatness.”

According to him, the journey towards a stronger, more prosperous, and more united Federal Republic of Nigeria begins now.

“A new movement, a new direction, a new Nigeria is set,” he assured.

The statement concluded that more details, including the campaign’s policy direction, strategic roadmap, and national engagement plans, will be communicated in due course.

Speaking earlier, ADP National Chairman, Yabagi Yusuf Sani, congratulated all delegates, officers, members and supporters of the ADP for remaining steadfast, disciplined and committed to the progress of the party.

“Your sacrifice, patience and loyalty have kept the party alive, united and focused.

“The ADP has continued to present itself to Nigerians as the credible alternative. At a time when our country faces deep economic pressure, insecurity, unemployment, poverty, social tension and loss of confidence in public institutions, Nigerians are searching for leadership that is sincere, competent, courageous and compassionate.

“Our country requires a new political attitude. Nigeria needs leaders who understand that public office is a trust, not a privilege for self-enrichment.

“Nigeria needs a party that believes in service, not domination; inclusion, not exclusion; competence, not propaganda; and unity, not division.

“That is why the ADP remains relevant. That is why we are gathered here today.”

Sani added that ADP is committed to building a Nigeria where every citizen can live in peace, work with dignity and hope for a better future.

“We believe in a nation where the youth are empowered, women are respected and included, farmers are supported, workers are protected, businesses are encouraged, and every community is given a fair opportunity to prosper.

“This convention is also an opportunity to strengthen our internal structures and demonstrate that democracy must begin from within the political parties themselves.

“We cannot demand national democracy if we do not practise party democracy. We cannot ask Nigerians to trust us if we do not conduct our own affairs with transparency, fairness and order,” he said.

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