Atiku: If I am elected president in ‌⁠⁠‌⁠⁠‍‍‍⁠2027, I will put an end to the maneuvers and strengthen the independence of INEC

African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has pledged to end electoral fraud and strengthen the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if elected president in 2027.
Atiku made the pledge in his speech delivered on Thursday at the ADC headquarters in Abuja to commemorate the 66th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.
He promised to support the timely publication of results from each polling unit and ensure that electoral violators are dealt with by law, regardless of party affiliation.
The presidential candidate said anyone caught buying votes or altering election results will be criminally prosecuted, stressing that every Nigerian’s vote must count as cast.
He urged Nigerians to protect their votes, reject intimidation and carefully question every candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to him, Nigerians should demand detailed plans that can be scrutinized and promises whose implementation can be measured objectively.
“The coming elections offer us a peaceful way to choose our course. This country is yours,” Atiku said.
He also promised that, if elected, his administration will prioritize affordability and the protection of life as central components of governance.
He said his administration will work to reduce the cost of food, fuel and electricity, while improving access to health care and education.
The former vice president also pledged to restore safety in communities facing insecurity and ensure accountability in public spending.
He said government performance would be measured by the ability of Nigerians to afford basic necessities and live safely in their communities.
Atiku said his administration will introduce a limited, budgeted production subsidy tied to verified fuel refined locally, including modular refineries.
He said imported gasoline would not be eligible for the proposed subsidy, adding that the benefit would reach consumers through lower pump prices.
“We will publish costs, independently verify payments and cut government waste to help fund the program,” Atiku said.
He said the principle behind the proposal is to produce and refine locally, create jobs and reduce the cost of petroleum products.
Atiku also promised to work with his vice president and ADC partners to pursue policies to make life affordable.
He said Nigerians deserve access to affordable food, healthcare, education, transportation and other necessities necessary for a dignified life.
The ADC candidate urged Nigerians to carefully scrutinize campaign promises and demand accountability from political leaders before, during and after elections.
He said Nigeria’s independence should guarantee political freedom, allowing citizens to question leaders, organize peacefully and demand change without intimidation.
Atiku called for strict adherence to the rule of law, fair application of justice, respect for legal remedies and due process in cases involving detained or convicted citizens.
“On this day, I demand that the rule of law be applied equally in every case,” he said.
Atiku said the continued detention of Sheikh Sani Khalifa Zaria and Malam Nasir El-Rufai raised questions about due process.
He further urged that following the conviction of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, his right to legal appeal must be respected, while the grievances and divisions surrounding his case should be addressed.
He said his administration will focus on creating productive jobs and sustainable opportunities for young people that will enable them to build better lives.
The ADC presidential candidate said budgets should serve as a timetable for delivery, clearly showing projects funded, programs completed and outstanding obligations.
He urged Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from whoever emerged as their elected representative in the 2027 general elections.
Atiku said his commitment will remain focused on making governance responsive to the needs of citizens and protecting democratic institutions and processes.