By Oxford Reporters
Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has described the massive turnout at the flag-off of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential campaign in Sokoto as a strong demonstration of Nigerians’ growing support for the party’s presidential candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Tambuwal, who welcomed Atiku, the Wazirin Adamawa, to Sokoto, described the state as the former vice president’s first home, noting that the enthusiastic reception reflected the people’s affection for him and confidence in his leadership.
According to a statement by his media office, Tambuwal said Atiku received an overwhelming reception from the airport through the streets of Sokoto to the ADC campaign headquarters, where the presidential campaign was officially flagged off.
Atiku and other members of the party’s leadership also paid a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, at his palace.
The campaign flag-off attracted the ADC vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi; the party’s National Chairman, Senator David Mark; National Secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; members of the Presidential Campaign Council; and other party leaders and dignitaries.
Tambuwal alleged that ADC members and supporters encountered intimidation, harassment and deliberate attempts to discourage their participation in the campaign activities.
He also alleged that the party was denied access to a campaign venue and hotel accommodation, but maintained that the challenges did not diminish the massive support demonstrated by the people of Sokoto.
The senator described the turnout as a significant political statement, saying it reflected Nigerians’ growing desire for Atiku’s leadership as the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He expressed appreciation to members of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, led by Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, for their commitment and contributions towards the successful flag-off.
Tambuwal particularly commended the party’s vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, for his dedication and support, while also acknowledging other party leaders and stakeholders who contributed to the event.
He further thanked the people of Sokoto State for their enthusiasm, solidarity and overwhelming participation, which he said made the campaign flag-off a remarkable success.
The former governor reaffirmed the ADC’s determination to build a better Nigeria, expressing optimism about the party’s prospects in the 2027 presidential election.
“Together, we remain resolute in our determination to build a better Nigeria and to make Nigeria affordable again,” Tambuwal said.
