President Bola Tinubu urged voters in Akwa Ibom State to back him in the 2027 election, using a campaign rally in Uyo on Friday to question the political record and leadership credentials of African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar.
Key takeaways
- Tinubu criticised Atiku for leaving the Peoples Democratic Party and joining what he described as a “dangerous AD camp”.
- The president told Akwa Ibom residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards before the 2027 polls.
- He pledged improved development, education, skills training and employment opportunities for the state.
- Tinubu said Akwa Ibom could generate greater value from its palm resources and build durable vocational capabilities.
Campaign appeal in Uyo
Addressing supporters in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom capital, Tinubu warned Nigerians against voting for Atiku. He portrayed the former PDP figure’s departure from the party as evidence of a lack of political consistency, arguing that someone who had risen within the PDP should not have left over what he characterised as minor difficulties.
Tinubu appealed directly to residents to secure their PVCs in preparation for the 2027 elections. “Akwa Ibom, I love you,” he said, adding that he would spend the night in the state for a “presidential sleep and dream”. He asked the public to collect their voter cards and cast their ballots “for the sake of your future”.
Development and palm-sector potential
The president promised a stronger economic outlook for Akwa Ibom, citing development, education, workforce skills and job creation as priorities. “We are going to plant a lot of economic trees,” he said.
Tinubu said the state had no reason not to capture more value from its palm trees and palm-related resources. He also argued that Akwa Ibom could establish skills-development programmes capable of delivering long-term and lasting benefits.
Returning to his criticism of Atiku, Tinubu said the ADC candidate had once been the “baby” of the PDP before becoming a “father” within the party. He questioned whether leaving the PDP over limited disagreements and forming what he called a dangerous AD camp in another party demonstrated the character and leadership needed to govern Nigeria. “And he wants you to vote for him? It’s not for Banana,” Tinubu said.
