Atiku Abubakar Unveils 2027 Presidential Campaign Council

Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar unveiled a 69-man National Campaign Council for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in preparation for the January 16, 2027, general election. The council is chaired by Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai serving as Deputy Chairman. El-Rufai's appointment comes despite his current detention and investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Abubakar described the structure as lean, stating the size reflects the severe economic realities confronting Nigerians and aims to avoid ornamental appointments. The organization includes six operational directorates and a Campaign Advisory Council chaired by John Oyegun. The campaign intends to focus on insecurity, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.

The announcement triggered immediate political friction. The All Progressives Congress (APC) declared Abubakar unfit for office, labeling him an accidental Vice President and citing a history of corruption. Simultaneously, former Central Bank of Nigeria Deputy Governor Kingsley Moghalu publicly rejected his inclusion in the campaign's policy team. Moghalu asserted he was not consulted and has maintained a non-partisan posture since 2022.