Ebun Francis|
The presidential candidate of Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, on Monday, described himself as a ‘Jack of all trades,’ who will solve the country’s numerous problems if elected in 2019.
Atiku who made the statement at the flagged off his campaign at the race course field in Sokoto appealed to the residents to vote in one of their own as president.
“I’m a Jack of all trades. I did almost all the businesses in this world. I’m a farmer, a businessman, and a civil servant,” he said. “I did everything in search of wealth, for this reason, among the presidential candidates, no one can help the youth better than myself.”
He also subtly whipped up tribal sentiments when he told the gathering that he is a full-fledged Fulani man who deserves their support.
“My great grand parents are from Wurno, Sokoto state. I can prove myself by speaking Fulfulde to you now,” Mr. Abubakar said. “I am Atiku Abubakar, your brother, a Fulani man. I present to you myself. I’m seeking to be Nigerian president, please vote for me. Don’t trust anybody to come and deceive you,” he added in Fulfude.
Mr. Abubakar, who said he came from a poor background said: “Today I’m a somebody and I assure you, you too can be whatever you want to be if you’re determined”.
The main opposition party’s presidential flagbearer also took a swipe at his main opponent, President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Don’t let those whose cows for years are only 150 to come and lie to you. My cows are more than thousands,” he said. “Be mindful of those deceivers, liars and cheats, there’s nothing Nigeria needs more than to make sure that the youth and the poor are empowered,” he added.