Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that he will not run for president again if he fails to to win the 2027 general election, ruling out any plan to contest in the office again in 2031 and also marking what could be the close of decades-long political pursuit.

Atiku made the announcement on Wednesday August 19, during an interview conducted in Hausa, while responding to question about whether he would mount another presidential campaign in the event of a defeat next year.

Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has previously described the 2027 election as his “last shot” at the presidency.

The latest declaration means Atiku would end his long-running presidential ambition if he fails to defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other contenders in the 2027 election.

Atiku, who sought the presidency several times, urged Nigerians with Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to turn out in large numbers to vote in the 2027 election, describing active participation as critical to changing the country’s situation.

He advised voters to remain at their polling units after casting their ballots and follow counting process to ensure that their votes were properly recorded.

“First of all I appeal to those who have voters cards, for their own sake, their families, and their future, to go out and vote. That is the solution to the problems they are facing.

“After going out to vote, they should also stay, escort, and ensure that those votes are counted”, Atiku said.

Atiku has contested the presidency several times, including under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2019 and 2023, before joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 poll.

The statement is already drawing attention because of Atiku’s long pursuit of the presidency and the growing contest among opposition figures ahead of 2027 election.

-9News Nigeria.