Presidential aide Dada Olusegun has slammed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for blaming the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) after a federal high court nullified his candidacy as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate.

MyNigeria gathered that the ADC camp has filed an appeal to overturn the judgment against Atiku and other party leaders.

Atiku has announced that, despite the verdict, he remains in the 2027 presidential race. He said this as he accused President Bola Tinubu of trying to use the courts to win the coming election.

He shared, "Let me be clear to every Nigerian who has stood with us: I am in this race. I am not going anywhere. We will be on the ballot. No threat, blackmail or court manoeuvre will make me abandon you or the cause we share.

"We will resist with all our strength every attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. Nigeria belongs to all its people. Our democracy must remain open to more than one party and more than one voice. If those in power believe in their numbers and their record, let us meet at the polls in a free, fair and credible contest.

"Our campaign will continue. Our message on the cost of living will not be silenced or derailed. Stay calm, united and resolute. Together, we will fight for a Nigeria where life is affordable and every citizen’s vote counts.

"Let me say this plainly: Bola cannot use the courts to escape the judgment of Nigerians at the ballot box."

Reacting, Tinubu's aide said, "Atiku hijacked a party and is now blaming the opposition. The ADC takeover was hastily done and did not follow the party constitution.

"When the former chairman resigned, his deputy should have become interim chairman. This is not the work of the opposition; it is a good judgment."

ASA