Atiku pledges electoral reforms and locally linked fuel subsidy ahead of 2027 vote

Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, has pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral institutions and prosecute electoral offenders if elected president in the 2027 general election. In an address at the ADC headquarters in Abuja marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary, the former vice-president promised to reinforce the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission. He said results from every polling unit should be published promptly and that people who bought votes or altered results should face the law, regardless of party affiliation.

Atiku urged voters to protect their ballots, reject intimidation and scrutinise the plans of candidates. He said campaign promises should be detailed, measurable and capable of being tested after the election. He also said his administration would prioritise affordability and safety, with measures aimed at reducing the cost of food, fuel and electricity and improving access to healthcare and education.

He promised to restore security in communities facing insecurity and make public spending more accountable. On fuel, Atiku proposed a capped and budgeted production subsidy tied to verified fuel refined locally, including by modular refineries. Imported petrol would not qualify, he said, and the benefit would be passed to consumers through lower pump prices.

He also promised that subsidy costs would be published and payments independently audited. The candidate said the policy would support local production, create jobs and reduce petroleum costs. He pledged to work with running mate Rotimi Amaechi and ADC partners on measures to make essential goods and services more affordable.

Atiku also called for fair application of the rule of law, respect for lawful appeals and due process in cases involving detained or convicted citizens. He said budgets should function as delivery timetables, identifying funded projects, completed programmes and outstanding obligations, and urged voters to demand accountability before and after the 2027 election.