By 9jaeye 
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who represented the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election, has recently asserted that he didn’t lose the election fairly. Instead, he claims that his mandate was “criminally stolen.” This bold statement has not only fueled debates over Nigeria’s electoral system but also raised questions about the transparency and credibility of the 2023 election.
Despite the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declaring Bola Tinubu as the winner of the election, Atiku has continued to challenge the legitimacy of the outcome. In addition, the Supreme Court recently upheld Tinubu’s victory, further solidifying his position as Nigeria’s president. Yet, Atiku argues that these rulings don’t reflect the true will of Nigerians. He insists that many citizens believe Tinubu’s victory was achieved through irregularities, which he claims marred the electoral process.
Atiku’s stance resonates with many who share his doubts about the credibility of the electoral process. Throughout his post-election statements, he has repeatedly highlighted specific concerns, pointing to alleged flaws in vote counting and result collation. This recent declaration emphasizes his belief that Nigeria’s electoral system needs urgent reform. For Atiku, these reforms are essential not only for transparency but also to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.
Looking Ahead to Future Elections
While the court rulings have legally settled the 2023 election outcome, Atiku’s allegations keep the conversation alive. He has called on both political leaders and electoral authorities to take concrete steps toward reforming the election process. His goal, he says, is to ensure that future elections truly reflect the will of the people.
Seeking Credibility in Nigeria’s Democracy
Atiku’s message underscores a broader issue: the need for Nigeria’s democratic institutions to foster trust and credibility. By urging for reforms, he hopes to set a new standard for integrity in future elections. This push for change not only highlights the flaws he sees in the current system but also signals his commitment to a transparent and accountable Nigeria.
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