By Becky Usman

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 elections, has declared his intention to reclaim his mandate from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the judicial system. Atiku referred to Tinubu’s government as temporary, alleging that it was obtained through electoral misconduct.

Speaking at a PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Bauchi State, Atiku urged the party’s members in the National Assembly to resist becoming mere “rubber stamp” legislators. He emphasized the importance of serving as a strong opposition to the current administration.

Acknowledging that, based on the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), PDP members are not the majority in the National Assembly, Atiku advised them to prepare for the role of an effective and constructive opposition while awaiting the resolution of electoral challenges in court. He encouraged them to consider themselves a “Government in-waiting” until the cases are concluded.

Atiku’s remarks underscore his determination to challenge the legitimacy of Tinubu’s government and pursue legal avenues to secure what he believes to be his rightful mandate. The PDP continues to strategize and position itself for future political roles, both as an opposition force and potentially as the majority party, depending on the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings.