Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has unveiled a digital platform designed to allow Nigerians to question him directly about his political agenda, record in public office and proposals for addressing the country’s challenges.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate named the initiative Ask AA, describing it as a channel for promoting transparency, accountability and direct communication between political leaders and citizens.
The ADC’s Director of Strategic Communication, Phrank Shaibu, announced the initiative in a statement on Thursday, saying the platform would be available to the public free of charge from 8:30 p.m. that day.
According to the statement, Nigerians will be able to submit questions on a range of issues, including the economy, national security, technology, employment and Atiku’s policy proposals.
The former vice president is expected to answer questions personally, with members of his media team also assisting in responding to submissions.
The campaign said the platform was developed to address the communication gap between political leaders and the electorate by making information about Atiku’s positions and plans more accessible.
Shaibu described the initiative as an effort to bring the ADC candidate closer to Nigerians through a platform focused on public concerns and practical solutions.
He added that the project reflected Atiku’s interest in using modern technology to improve governance and make public institutions more efficient and responsive.
To extend its reach beyond internet users, the campaign also plans to make the platform accessible through radio, allowing people in communities with limited internet connectivity to participate.
‘Leadership Is A Two-Way Conversation’
Atiku, announcing the initiative on his social media accounts, said the platform was founded on his belief that leadership should involve continuous engagement with the people.
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He argued that governance had often appeared distant to citizens because of bureaucratic barriers, stressing the need to create more opportunities for Nigerians to communicate their concerns to those seeking public office.
“That is why I am launching Ask AA, a direct citizen-engagement platform built for transparency, accountability and dialogue. No filters, no intermediaries,” he said.
The ADC candidate said Nigerians could use the platform to scrutinise his economic record, examine his proposals on technology, security and job creation, or offer their own ideas for national development.
He added that he welcomed questions, criticism of his policies and recommendations from members of the public.
Beyond responding to submissions through the platform, Atiku disclosed that he would personally contact selected participants who provide their telephone numbers.
He said the calls would give him an opportunity to hear directly about citizens’ experiences, challenges and concerns.