The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has debunked claims that he is withdrawing from the 2023 presidential race.
OsunDaily News reports that Atiku made this known through his media aide, Paul Ibe, while reacting to claims made by a Twitter user, Cousin Ray, on Friday.
Ray had claimed that a source close to Atiku said he was planning to withdraw from the presidential race over his inability to resolve issues with the five aggrieved governors.
The Twitter user also said the PDP candidate was becoming increasingly frustrated by the lack of traction in his campaign and the crisis in the party.
He added that the former Vice President disclosed to his allies his reluctance to risk another embarrassing outing at the 2023 general election.
Reacting to the claims in an interview with The Punch, Ibe said there was no truth in the claims made by the Twitter user, who he said was an agent of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He questioned whether those spreading these false claims were taking substances that made them act irrationally at times.
Ibe, however, expressed confidence that the crisis rocking the party will be resolved soon because they are getting attention.
He said: “We may need to investigate what those people are smoking, what substance they are taking. You heard what Governors Wike and Ortom said; it is very clear and those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.
“I can assure you that whatever issues we have in the PDP will be resolved because they are getting attention. Meanwhile, the roads have started the campaigns.”
Ibe accused the APC of using means to spread propaganda and enthroning the culture of violence in the country at various levels.
He added that such behaviour was showcased in Borno and Kaduna State during Atiku’s presidential campaign rallies.
He added: “The APC as a political party has enthroned a culture of violence in Nigeria, it is that same culture that made them go violent in Borno State at all levels, the state, and federal levels.”
