Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has described the decision of his son, Abba Abubakar, to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a personal choice, insisting that the development should not be a source of concern or political alarm.
In a statement released on Thursday via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Atiku said political decisions made by family members were normal in a democratic society and stressed that he does not impose his political views on his children or on Nigerians.
“The decision of my son, Abba Abubakar, to join the APC is entirely personal,” Atiku stated. “In a democracy, such choices are neither unusual nor alarming, even when family and politics intersect.”
He further emphasised his commitment to democratic principles, noting that freedom of conscience remains fundamental. “As a democrat, I do not coerce my own children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians,” he added.
Despite acknowledging his son’s political move, the former vice president took the opportunity to criticise the ruling party, All Progressives Congress, describing governance under its leadership as deeply troubling. He said his primary concern remained the state of the nation and the economic and social challenges facing Nigerians.
“What truly concerns me is the poor governance of the APC and the severe economic and social hardships it has imposed on our people,” Atiku said. “I remain resolute in working with like-minded patriots to restore good governance and offer Nigerians a credible alternative that brings relief, hope, and progress.”
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Abba Abubakar’s defection was earlier reported on Thursday following his formal reception into the APC at an event in Abuja. He was welcomed by the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, alongside the party’s National Vice-Chairman (North-East), Mustafa Salihu.
Announcing his defection, Abba Abubakar said he had decided to leave his former political party and align with the APC after carefully observing the leadership style and direction of the ruling party. He also pledged to support the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
“My name is Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, popularly known as Abba,” he said. “I am here today to formally announce my exit from my former party and my decision to join the APC. With this development, I will work with Senator Barau Jibrin to actualise the second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.”
He further directed all coordinators and members of his political structure to immediately join the APC and mobilise support for the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Welcoming him into the party, APC leaders described the defection as symbolic and significant. Mustafa Salihu noted that the move reflected growing confidence in the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration, adding that the party was focused on bridging political divides and strengthening national unity.
The development has continued to generate reactions across the political landscape, highlighting the evolving dynamics within Nigeria’s major political parties as preparations gradually begin ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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