TheCable

Former vice president, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2015 presidential election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja , the three-time presidential aspirant said he would run a government with “zero tolerance on corruption”.

He also said he had chosen to answer the call to serve because of his belief that Nigerians deserve better.

He described the government of President Goodluck Jonathan as one on “autopilot”, adding that Nigerians are desirous of change, which his party represents.

“I want to lead a government where there is zero tolerance for corruption,” he told a large gathering of supporters at Shehu Musa Yar’ adua centre.

“Nigeria must rise to take its place in the world. It is a call to serve that I have come to answer. With the support and prayers of Nigerians we will build a great new Nigeria for Nigerians.

“I have listened to the concerns of Nigerians, yet I still see hope in the face of the challenges. Our people have refused to succumb to despair. This never-say-die attitude of Nigerians is the reason I can never give up on Nigeria.

“The youth, the future of Nigeria is represented here today. You the youth are endowed with enormous potential. In you are the hope of this nation. The 2015 election is about you.

“Our party remains strong and capable of delivering on democratic promises. The future of this country should not be subject to experimentation or learning on the job.

“My politics has been guided by fairness and justice. I have what it takes to bring people together and make things happen. We need strong dynamic leadership that would create jobs.

“With the support of Nigerians the APC shall form the next government in 2015. I have therefore decided to seek nomination on the platform of the APC to contest election for president.”