Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has pledged to keep contesting for the presidency as long as his health permits.

In an interview on the Hausa service of the Voice of America in Abuja, Atiku confirmed his intent to remain in the presidential race. “Of course, I will keep contesting again and again as long as I am alive and healthy,” he said.

Atiku drew a parallel to former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln, noting, “Even the former US President Abraham Lincoln contested seven times before finally winning.”

However, Atiku acknowledged the challenges facing his party, the PDP. “Given the current state of the PDP, it is clear that a single-handed effort will not suffice to win the election. Strong support and collaboration with other parties are required,” he emphasized.

Atiku, who will be 81 by the next presidential election in 2027, has a long history of presidential runs, having contested six times. He has been a presidential candidate three times, in 2007, 2019, and 2023.

Reflecting on his persistent efforts, Atiku stated, “I am consoled by the fact that former United States President Abraham Lincoln did not win the presidential vote on his first attempt.”

Regarding the internal issues within the PDP, Atiku called for unity and strategic alliances with other political groups to secure victory in the 2027 elections. Speculations have arisen about Atiku and other politicians potentially forming a coalition with various political parties.

Recently, Atiku met with Peter Obi, the presidential candidate from the Labour Party (LP). Addressing rumors of discord, Atiku assured, “To anyone who thinks there is going to be a misunderstanding between me and Obi, let me assure you that not even a small issue is going to happen between us. We will support whoever is chosen to represent us in the forthcoming elections.”