Abuja:African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to eliminate election rigging and enhance the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if elected President. Atiku made this commitment during his address at the ADC headquarters in Abuja, marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Atiku has promised to support the prompt publication of election results from every polling unit and ensure that electoral offenders face legal consequences, regardless of their party affiliation. He emphasized that individuals caught buying votes or altering election results would be prosecuted, asserting that every Nigerian’s vote must be counted as cast.
Atiku urged Nigerians to protect their votes, resist intimidation, and carefully scrutinize every candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections. He encouraged citizens to demand detailed plans and promises that can be objectively measured for implementation.
He also outlined his administration’s priorities, which include reducing the cost of food, fuel, and electricity, improving access to healthcare and education, and restoring security in communities facing insecurity. Atiku emphasized that government performance should be measured by citizens’ ability to afford basic necessities and live safely.
Atiku proposed introducing a capped and budgeted production subsidy tied to verified locally refined fuel, including modular refineries, excluding imported petrol from this subsidy. He promised transparency through published costs, independent audits, and cutting government waste to fund the program, aiming to create jobs and reduce petroleum product costs.
He also committed to collaborating with his running mate and ADC partners to pursue policies that make life affordable, emphasizing the need for access to affordable food, healthcare, education, and transportation.
Atiku stressed the significance of Nigeria’s independence in guaranteeing political freedom, allowing citizens to question leaders, organize peacefully, and demand change without facing intimidation. He called for strict adherence to the rule of law, fair application of justice, and respect for lawful appeals and due process.
The detention of Sheikh Sani Khalifa Zaria and Malam Nasir El-Rufai, as well as the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, were highlighted by Atiku, calling for due process and addressing grievances and divisions. He also emphasized the importance of creating productive employment and sustainable opportunities for youths.
Atiku urged Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from elected representatives in the 2027 general elections, asserting that his commitment would remain focused on responsive governance and the protection of democratic institutions and processes.