Introduction

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recently descended on Sokoto to officially flag off the African Democratic Congress presidential campaign, drawing a crowd that turned a short journey into a three-hour march.

What Happened

Supporters lined the seven-kilometre route from the airport to the campaign venue at Ilorin Road, forcing Atiku’s convoy to crawl for hours. The former vice president used the platform to pledge the restoration of fuel subsidies, the reopening of national borders, and a decisive end to rising insecurity.

Why This Matters

The Sokoto rally underscores the growing opposition momentum ahead of the 2026 electoral cycle. With the APC-led administration facing criticism over economic policies and governance, Atiku’s appearance in the historic Caliphate city signals the opposition’s strategy to consolidate northern support.

Key Takeaways

  • Fuel subsidy restoration: Atiku pledged to reinstate the fuel subsidy if elected president.
  • Border reopening: The ADC candidate vowed to reopen national borders for legitimate business.
  • Insecurity pledge: Atiku promised a decisive end to rising insecurity across Nigeria.
  • Opposition critique: Rotimi Amaechi accused the Tinubu administration of corruption and economic mismanagement.
  • Party unity: Senator David Mark urged supporters to vote ADC “from top to bottom.”
  • State friction: Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal accused the APC-led state government of denying venue and hotel accommodation.

Conclusion

As the ADC prepares for the upcoming election cycle, the Sokoto flag-off serves as a clear signal of the party’s ambition and the challenges awaiting the ruling party. Atiku’s rally not only energized supporters but also set the tone for a competitive political battle in 2026.