The camp of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly refuted rumours that he is ill and on bed rest. In a statement released on Monday, May 18, 2026, the Atiku Media Office described the report by Sahara Reporters as a work of fiction and a regrettable descent into yellow journalism.
Atiku's Camp Responds
According to the statement issued by Atiku’s aide, Paul Ibe, the former vice president is hale, hearty, and fully engaged in preparations for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) screening and primary election. The statement read: “His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, is hale, hearty, and fully engaged in preparations for the @ADCNig screening and primary election.”
Atiku has been actively participating in high-level consultations and strategic meetings with key ADC stakeholders. Following the submission of his nomination forms on Thursday, the Waziri Adamawa observed Juma’at prayers at the mosque on Friday and has remained actively involved in the democratic process.
Accusations Against Sahara Reporters
The Atiku camp accused the publisher of reckless speculation, anonymous gossip, and manufactured falsehoods. They urged Nigerians to disregard the mischievous report entirely, emphasizing that Atiku remains strong, focused, and fully prepared for the tasks ahead.
Public Reactions
Nigerians have reacted to the rumour on social media. @Demchille tweeted: “His Excellency Atiku Abubakar suffers from so much fake news in this country. Are you all sure everything is ok with all these clowns.” @alhajimobola2 added: “Atiku is hale and hearty, nothing will happen to him! These desperate propagandists and their fake news from Sahara Reporters should be ashamed. Atiku will keep moving forward, no shaking.”
Atiku Faces Opposition
Meanwhile, Atiku has faced criticism from Nigeria's opposition bloc ahead of the 2027 general elections. Major political parties and pressure groups, including the Labour Party, All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), as well as the Kwankwasiyya and Obidient Movements, have faulted his claim that no southern candidate can defeat President Bola Tinubu.
Call for Realistic Strategies
Atiku’s camp has urged the opposition to adopt realistic strategies for the 2027 presidential election. They criticized emotional arguments over zoning, highlighting historical precedents in Nigerian politics, and called for credible coalitions to challenge the incumbent power, emphasizing strategic focus over sentiment.
