Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Saturday made a bold statement about his popularity in his North-East stronghold when he formally threw his hat into the ring for the 2019 presidential battle.

Though officially dubbed the Adamawa State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Rally, it was, in reality, Atiku’s show, as the mammoth fanatical supporters of the frontline PDP presidential aspirant from all the states of the North East sang his praises to high heavens, decked in uniforms emblazoned with his portrait and brandishing banners and portraits of the man they believe is Nigeria’s next President.

The rally, which literally brought parts of the Adamawa State capital to a standstill, was held at Ribadu Square, Yola.

It also featured many PDP national, regional and state leaders led by the party’s National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus.