For majority of Nigerians, the years of APC administration under Buhari can be described as what Queen Elizabeth of England will refer as ‘annua horribilis’ horrible years. On the headline “Buhari’s government has in flinched pains, frustration on Nigeria” published by Vanguard on the 26th of January this year, the former Governor of Jigawa state Alhaji Sule Lamido said that the president Muhammadu Buhari led administration has only succeeded in inflicting pains, agony, frustration, blood bath and poverty on majority of Nigerians. He said this when he paid a consultative visit to the governor of Delta state Dr Ifeanyi Okowa and the state chapter of the PDP over his 2019 presidential ambition. Continuing he said that PDP owe it as a duty to rescue the country from the hands of All Progressive congress. Report on Daily Trust on April posits that the Buhari’s administration has not delivered sufficiently on his promises. A report from Sun newspaper recently, captured intensively the opinion of Nigerians who are disappointed. According to the opinion poll drawn from many part of Nigeria, expectations were very high when Buhari came on board. But unfortunately, Nigerians have succeeded in reaping untold hardship, hunger, loss of jobs, prices of commodities hitting the roof, hike of fuel in the pretense of subsidy removal, rampage of herdsmen and outright recession. All these have reflected in the living standard of the people to the extent that Nigeria is being found at the bottom of every index.
Once again, majority of Nigerians are out to shop for a credible candidate who will place Nigerians interest first above nepotism, tribalistic sentiments, and religious intolerance. A leader who possesses love of knowledge as well as intelligent willing to serve the people’s interest.
Declaring his intention to run for the presidency few months after he left the All Progressives Congress, (APC), the Adamawa born politician stated that under the present APC-led Federal Government, the entire economy had collapsed saying he has the capacity to move the country forward following his track record as the then vice president of Nigeria. “We all know what we have gone through in this country in the last three years. I can tell you throughout the whole of today that where the APC left us in the last three years whether in the education sector, in the health sector, or in the economy, we have been going down in every statistics. That is why I have offered myself to run for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2019,” he said.
Atiku Abubakar, maintained that he never stole money while in government saying that Olusegun Obasanjo, his ex-boss would have exposed him if he had stolen “government money.” He said Nigerian youth are being hoodwinked by antics, but acknowledged their boldness. “The youth have every right to ask and be answered convincingly. The youth of today are confident and bold that is why so many are succeeding without assistance. No leader can treat them as nobody”. he said
Opinions of endorsement: From all indication most Nigerians believe that Atiku’s presidency will bring about transformation of Nigeria’. In a report published on Guardian newspaper on April 18th 2018 Pan Nigerian movement, Re-building Nigeria Initiative (RNI), which seeks to advocate for the development and growth of Nigeria and the protection of her citizens’ rights and privileges, is canvassing support for the former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2019 presidential election. The movement has showcased Atiku Abubakar as the most credible candidate to lead the country.
Another group called ATIKU YOUTH ORGANISATION NATION WIDE {AYON} equally feels that Atiku is the best candidate to take the country out of the present socio-economic and political crisis. In an exclusive chat with Pastor Chris Anayochukwu Agim, the assistant Lagos state coordinator the group believes that Atiku parades the best credentials in terms of experience and acceptability across the six geo-political zones. “Atiku should be trusted because he has been tested and we are sure he will use his wide business network and good knowledge to provide jobs for the youths. He loves the youths and he has a human feelings. With him I assure you there’s hope for the youths come 2019.” He stated. Continuing, the eloquent minister of God advised Nigerians to get their voters card ready because we need to joined hands to vote this government out of office come 2019. “Atiku Abubakar is the only man that has all it takes to bring back the unity and progress of this country. Atiku is our choice for 2019” he concluded
In the same vain, Elder Eddy Akang, the treasurer of ‘AYON’ Lagos chapter said that it is on record that Atiku has never been labeled with any ethnic sentiment. He equally understands the dynamics of governing a multi-ethnic and religiously sensitive country like Nigeria. “His success in running global businesses would assist him in channeling the economic potentials of the country to the utmost best of the citizens. Again, his interaction with other parties shows his capability and team spirit; beside his nationalist attributes makes him acceptable to relate with.” Talking about the power of incumbency, Elder Akang further assures Nigerian to brace up the courage to vote out a bad government. “It is not the first time that the incumbent has been removed from office. History will repeat itself again after all power belong to the people” he concluded
Furthermore, the South East Coordinator/Director of Atiku Youth Organization Nationwide (AYON) Princess Chinyere Unachukwu said that the group is currently sensitizing Nigerians in all the states and equally encouraging membership across the 774 local governments to participate actively in the coming election by obtaining their PVC and also ensure they vote and stand by their votes. “I don’t really believe that the power of incumbency will play a big role in the coming election, because the electorate will compare performance with promises which the ruling ‘APC’ made before they took over government. Power belongs to God. More so, performance, and not incumbency would determine the 2019. From what I have seen, people’s reaction are that of happiness, they want him to be the next president of Nigeria come 2019.” she observed
In reaction to his declaration, Governor Wike of Rivers state said “with the likes of the former vice President Atiku in the PDP, it gives hope that the party would come back to power in 2019”.
On the headline, Nigeria needs Atiku to make life more meaningful – Tinubu, published by Daily Trust in 2016, wrote: “I write to felicitate with you on the attainment of the proverbial age of three scores and ten, 70. Your life has been a life of service to your people, your country and the causes you believe in. Nigeria has been well-served by your 
stewardship and leadership. Your steadfastness in walking the democratic path sets you apart as a leader with substance. Your passion for education has seen you invest your time and resources in education, knowing full well that when you educate people, you educate a nation. You are a man of faith. Your faith has kept you going and kept you strong. I urge you to accept that there is a tide in the affairs of men. You must continue to serve Nigeria well even as a private citizen and a notable leader”.
Former Niger Delta militant leader, Alhaji Mujadid Asari- Dokubo has tipped ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar as PDP’s best candidate to challenge President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress, (APC) in the 2019 general elections. Asari- Dokubo in an interview dismissed some names being touted as the ‘PDP’ likely presidential candidate and warned that if the party fails to pick a strong candidate that can rally the people for the general election, it would lose the polls. Considering the position he took prior to the 2015 elections, objecting the candidature of President Muhammadu Buhari, he said, “this is because a few people and I knew that the packaging of Buhari to run as President was not right, but this packaging swayed many people. Look at Nigeria, look at the type of life people are living. It clearly shows and justified the position some of us held. Nigerians can no longer afford anything again, not food. Life is extremely brutish and people kill each other at the slightest provocation. It has never been like this before. So we have been vindicated” he concluded.
Atiku who has been busy with courtesy visits across Nigeria recently visited ex-military Head of State, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, IBB, at his Minna hilltop residence in Niger State. With some members of his campaign organization where they had a behind closed-doors for three hours.
The massive headlines online prove the fact that Atiku’s profile is on the rise. Let’s review few of them. Atiku is PDP’s Best Bet For 2019 Presidency – Asari-Dokubo – Sunnewsonline/atiku-is-pdps-best-bet-for-2019-presidency-asari-dokubo/
2019: Atiku emerging as PDP presidential candidate has come to stay …https://www.vanguardngr.com › News.
Jun 24, 2018 – Onuesoke reiterated that Atiku Abubakar remains the best bet of the opposition PDP for winning the 2019 presidential election.
Atiku, Only Candidate Capable Of Defeating Buhari In 2019 – Group … saharareporters.com/2018/…
Apr 12, 2018 – Atiku, Only Candidate Capable Of Defeating Buhari In 2019 – Group … Okpala added that President Buhari has the right to seek re-election.
Atiku Overall Best Candidate For 2019 Presidency – Retired General https://scannewsnigeria.com › Politics
Atiku Overall Best Candidate For 2019 Presidency – Retired General. May 29, 2018 David Jemibewon..
2019: Atiku is the best candidate to take Nigeria out of present socio economic down turn https://naija247news.com › Politics › Nigeria2019
2019: Atiku Best PDP Presidential Candidate to Challenge Buhari …https://www.thisdaylive.com › Politics
dailypost.ng › Politics, Feb 1, 2018 – “Despite all efforts to tarnished his good image remain unindicted as all the allegations against him have been proven to be baseless.
‘With Atiku as presidential candidate, PDP will return to power in 2019 …https://www.thecable.ng/atiku-presidential-candidate-pdp-will-return-power-2019, Jan 14, 2018 – ‘With Atiku as presidential candidate, PDP will return to power in 2019’ … “These are the good things that Atitu Abubakar will bring to Nigeria.
2019 presidential election: Atiku deserves PDP’s automatic ticket – LP https://www.naija.ng › , LP said the former vice president would be the best presidential candidate for the PDP. – The Ogun state party chairman Arabambi commended Atiku.
why Atiku Abubaka remains the best candidate in Nigeria presidential …www.hopefornigeriaonline.com/atiku-abubaka-remains-best-candidate-nigeria-preside…Jun 22, 2017 – Atiku Abubakar was Nigeria Vice President from 1999 to 2007. … and experience remains the best candidate for 2019 Presidential election.
2019: What Atiku must do to become our candidate – PDP BOT Chair …https://www.premiumtimesng.com/ November 27 … Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar
Mar 27, 2018 – Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar on Tuesday … Governor Wike, in reaction, described the former VP as a presidential candidate feared by the APC. … Atiku seems abetter alternative than nepotistic Buhari.
Atiku is PDP’s best bet for 2019 presidency – Asari-Dokubo, reubenabati.com.ng/…/6406-atiku-is-pdp-s-best-bet-for-2019-presidency-asari-dokub..
Atiku is PDP’s best bet for 2019 presidency – Asari-Dokubo … Party, PDP’s best candidate to challenge President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives …
‘Atiku’s presidency will transform Nigeria’ — Politics — The Guardian …https://guardian.ng/politics/atikus-presidency-will-transform-nigeria/Apr 18, 2018 – Explaining reason it feels, Atiku is the best candidate to take the … on grassroots mobilization for the ‘Atiku 2019’ campaign with the aim of … 2019: Atiku certain of emerging as PDP Presidential Candidate …www.tribuneonlineng.com › Top News, ,Onuesoke reiterated that Chief Abubakar remains the best bet for the opposition PDP to win the2019 presidential election. “It will be the best bet for PDP if Atiku …
2019: Group begins mobilization in Lagos, says Atiku best presidential … Righteousness they say cannot be legislated it grows from conviction. By all assessment, the man Atiku is quite different from lots of Nigerian politician. His contribution to Agriculture, chamber and commerce, employment opportunities and especially education are beyond measures. For instance, upon the release of the dismal results of the May–June 2014 West African Examinations Council (WAEC) results Abubakar said, in a statement: ″Our country’s educational institutions are clearly not providing quality learning. Our teachers need to be taught. This situation is a new development—of the past 10 years or so. The steady decline of education in Nigeria is a reflection of our country’s relegation of education to the background of national essentialities. That is where the change must begin. Teachers are important—as important as senators and doctors. Indeed, teachers determine the quality of senators and doctors. And so, the entire country stands to suffer the effects of this neglect in future. Nigeria must once again make education a priority. We must return to the basics.
Let us not equally forget that in 1981 he moved into agriculture, acquiring 2,500 hectares of land near Yola. He went later into trading, buying and selling truckloads of rice, flour and sugar. Just like every other business man, his start is not without obstacle, but in all of these, his tenacity to succeed kept him going. His major business break came with the setting up of the Nigeria Container Services (NICOTES) which was later rebranded INTELS; a logistics and an oil servicing business with extensive operations in Nigeria and abroad. He is also the founder of Adama Beverages Limited,as well as an animal feed factory.
As a leader with the passion to build an astounding society he established American University of Nigeria (AUN) which is the first American-style University to be established in Sub-Saharan Africa in Yola, and AUN has received special recognition from Google. In 1999 he, alongside South African Deputy President Jacob Zuma, launched the South Africa Nigeria Binational Commission. In August 2013 he sponsored a students’ essay contest to generate solutions to Nigeria’s most pressing institutional educational challenges. Entrants were asked to write between 2,000 and 5,000 words on the topic ‘More Learning to More People: How can Nigeria be more innovative in bridging its literacy and skills gap?’
In a bid to alleviate the educational decadence in North eastern Nigeria, Abubakar issued scholarship to 15 escapees of the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapping
Another beautiful thing about this man was his strong hood in the defense of the country. Nigerians really need to appreciate him for what he did then. Maybe this political space called Nigeria would have been in more tatters. In 2006, he was involved in a bitter public battle with his boss, President Olusegun Obasanjo, ostensibly arising from the latter’s bid to amend certain provisions of the constitution to take another shot at the presidency (for the third consecutive time). In a November 2013 interview Abubakar is quoted as saying, regarding Obasanjo’s alleged attempts to justify his third term bid: “[He] informed me that ‘I left power twenty years ago, I left Mubarak in office, I left Mugabe in office, I left Eyadema in office, I left Umar Bongo, and even Paul Biya and I came back and they are still in power; and I just did eight years and you are asking me to go; why?’ And I responded to him that Nigeria is not Libya, not Egypt, not Cameroun, and not Togo; you must leave; even if it means both of us lose out, but you cannot stay”. The debate and acrimony generated by the failed constitutional amendment momentarily caused a rift in the People’s Democratic Party. The Nigerian National Assembly eventually voted against any amendments allowing Obasanjo to run for another term. The Abubakar-Obasanjo face-off damaged the personal relationship between both men. How many politicians will sacrifice personal interest for the good of motherland as he did then
