The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has claimed that President Bola Tinubu is 90 years old, saying he has evidence to support the allegation and would present it in court if necessary.
The former Vice President made the claim in an interview with the BBC published on Friday, while explaining his decision to contest the 2027 presidential election and his determination to remain active in Nigerian politics.
Atiku said his age, health and experience made him qualified to seek the presidency, arguing that Nigerians should have the opportunity to choose their preferred candidate.
“You have a President who is 90 years old now and sick and I am healthy and strong. So why won’t I make myself available to serve my country?” Atiku said.
He added, “You went and voted for someone who is 90 years old. I have evidence that President Tinubu is 90 years old and I will present it in court.”
The allegation represents a fresh escalation in the long-running controversy over President Tinubu’s age.
Tinubu was born on March 29, 1952, according to his publicly stated biography, which would put him at 74 years old in 2026. The President has previously faced questions and allegations concerning his age and personal records, which his administration and supporters have rejected.
Atiku, however, insisted during the BBC interview that he had evidence backing his claim and would be prepared to submit it before a court if required.
The claim is likely to generate renewed political debate as parties and candidates intensify preparations for the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku, who served as Vice President from 1999 to 2007, is seeking the presidency for another time after several previous attempts.
He defended his decision to continue contesting elections, saying his persistence was connected to his opposition to military rule and his belief that he had a constitutional right to seek elective office.
The former Vice President said his political journey had been shaped by his desire to return Nigeria to democratic rule and contribute to the country’s development.
He also pointed to his experience in government and private business, as well as what he described as his competence and patriotism, as reasons he remained interested in leading the country.
Atiku has contested the presidency several times. He was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2019 and 2023 elections, losing to Muhammadu Buhari and Tinubu respectively.
His 2023 challenge against Tinubu ended with the Supreme Court upholding the President’s victory.
Atiku has since joined forces with other opposition figures and parties under the African Democratic Congress platform ahead of the 2027 election.
The former Vice President has presented the ADC as an alternative political platform capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress.
The age controversy is coming at a time when the health and capacity of political leaders remain major issues in Nigerian elections.
Atiku also used the BBC interview to speak about the country’s security situation, blaming the worsening insecurity on what he described as government irresponsibility, particularly in the areas of defence and policing.
Nigeria has continued to face serious security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal violence and other forms of criminality in different parts of the country.
Atiku said the problem could be addressed through better management of the security sector and stronger investment in defence and policing.
He promised that, if elected President, his administration would tackle the security situation within one year of taking office.
The promise is likely to form part of his campaign message ahead of the 2027 election, as insecurity remains one of the major concerns of Nigerians.
The country’s security challenges have affected communities, businesses, schools and agricultural activities, particularly in parts of the North and other areas affected by kidnapping and armed attacks.
Successive administrations have introduced different measures to address the situation, including increased military operations, recruitment of security personnel and investment in military equipment.
However, attacks and kidnappings have continued in several areas, leading to calls for a stronger and more coordinated response.
Atiku argued that better leadership was required to address the problem and restore confidence in the ability of government to protect citizens.
His comments also come as the 2027 political contest begins to take shape, with the ruling APC and opposition parties positioning themselves for what is expected to be a highly contested election.
Economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and the rising cost of living are expected to dominate the campaigns.
Atiku has already criticised some of the major economic policies of the Tinubu administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy. He has proposed a different approach to reducing the burden on Nigerians and has promised measures aimed at lowering the cost of living.
The former Vice President has also defended his continued participation in presidential politics despite his previous defeats.
He argued that there was nothing wrong with seeking the presidency repeatedly when the Constitution allowed him to contest and he believed he had the capacity to serve.
His latest position is expected to attract both support and criticism from political opponents as the election approaches.
For the Tinubu administration and the APC, Atiku’s claim about the President’s age presents another political challenge that could become a campaign issue.
However, Atiku’s assertion remains an allegation unless supported by credible evidence or established through a legal process.
The President has not, in the material available, publicly responded to the latest claim by Atiku.
As the 2027 election draws closer, personal issues involving the age, health and experience of presidential candidates are likely to receive increased attention alongside debates over their policies and records in public office.
Atiku, meanwhile, has made it clear that he intends to remain in the race and is presenting himself as a healthy, experienced and capable alternative to the incumbent.
He said his ultimate objective remained to serve Nigeria and use his experience to address the country’s security and economic challenges.