Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has described the massive turnout at the African Democratic Congress presidential campaign flag-off in Sokoto as a clear indication of Nigerians’ growing desire for political change ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Tambuwal, who welcomed the ADC presidential candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to Sokoto on Wednesday, said the overwhelming reception accorded him demonstrated the people’s confidence in his leadership and commitment to building a better Nigeria.

In a statement issued by his media office on Wednesday, Tambuwal described Sokoto as Atiku’s “first home”, noting that the ex-vice president received an enthusiastic welcome from the airport through major streets of the state capital to the party’s campaign headquarters, where the flag-off ceremony was held.

“The people of Sokoto have once again demonstrated their deep affection for the Wazirin Adamawa and their confidence in his leadership,” he said.

He noted that the massive turnout was particularly significant given what he described as intimidation, harassment and deliberate attempts to frustrate the party’s activities ahead of the campaign.

According to him, ADC members were allegedly denied access to a campaign venue and hotel accommodation, while some party supporters faced attempts to discourage their participation.

Tambuwal, however, said the challenges did not prevent the people from turning out in large numbers to demonstrate their solidarity with the party.

He described the reception as a significant political statement and evidence of Nigerians’ desire for Atiku to become the next president.

The former governor also expressed appreciation to members of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, led by Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, and the party’s vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, for their commitment to ensuring the successful commencement of the campaign.

He equally commended the ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, and other party leaders for their participation.

Atiku, accompanied by the party’s leadership and members of his campaign team, also paid a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, at his palace during the visit.

Tambuwal thanked the people of Sokoto State for what he described as their overwhelming support, saying their enthusiasm had made the campaign flag-off a remarkable success.

“Together, we remain resolute in our determination to build a better Nigeria and to make Nigeria affordable again,” he said.

He expressed optimism about the ADC’s chances in the 2027 presidential election, reaffirming the party’s commitment to delivering what he described as a better and more affordable Nigeria.