2027: Atiku Dismisses Age Concerns, Asks ‘Do I Look 80?’

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed concerns over his age as he seeks to contest the 2027 presidential election. Atiku, who will turn 80 in November 2026, addressed the issue during an interview with BBC Hausa published on Friday, August 28, 2026. The former vice president was asked how he intended to convince Nigerians who believe his age could affect his ability to serve a full presidential term. In response, Atiku questioned whether he appeared too old to lead the country. “Do I look to you like someone who has reached 80 years of age?” he asked. The interviewer had earlier pointed out that Atiku would be almost 80 by the time Nigerians go to the polls in 2027. Atiku also referenced President Bola Tinubu while responding to the age argument, initially suggesting that the President was 90 before the interviewer corrected him. The ADC candidate further rejected claims that he had become an obstacle to efforts by opposition politicians to form a united coalition ahead of the 2027 election. Describing the allegation as baseless, Atiku claimed that he was the person who initiated the opposition coalition. “That is a baseless accusation levelled against me. I was actually the one who initiated the coalition,” he said. He, however, acknowledged that some prominent opposition figures, including former Anambra State governor Peter Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, had moved away from the coalition. Despite the development, Atiku expressed optimism that the opposition could still reach an agreement before the 2027 election. On the economy, the former vice president criticised the Federal Government's handling of the removal of petrol subsidy. Atiku said he had not opposed the removal of the subsidy but questioned how the savings from the policy had been utilised. “I did not oppose the removal of the oil subsidy, but where is the money? Where did it go?” he asked. He reiterated his position that petrol subsidy should be restored if he becomes president, while those responsible for allegedly diverting the funds should be made to refund the money. Atiku has also promised to reopen Nigeria's land borders and improve the country's ports if elected, arguing that such measures would boost trade and create more opportunities for Nigerians. The 2027 election is expected to be Atiku's final presidential contest. He previously stated that he would not seek another presidential nomination if he loses the election. With the campaign season approaching, Atiku's age is likely to remain a major talking point. His latest response, however, suggests that he intends to focus the debate on his experience and capacity rather than his age.