Atiku Says Son’s Move to APC Is Personal, Not a Reflection of His Politics

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed his son’s recent move to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the decision as “entirely personal” and urging Nigerians not to draw broader political conclusions from it.

Atiku made the remarks on Thursday via his X handle, in response to the announcement that his son, Abba Abubakar, formally left the PDP to join the ruling APC.

The defection was publicly made at the National Assembly in Abuja, where Abba pledged his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid.

In his statement, the former vice president emphasised that individual choices in a democracy should be respected.

“The decision of my son, Abba Abubakar, to join the APC is entirely personal. In a democracy, such choices are neither unusual nor alarming, even when family and politics intersect,” Atiku wrote.

Atiku said he does not compel his children to act against their conscience and stressed that he applies the same principle to all Nigerians. “As a democrat, I do not coerce my own children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians,” he added.

While affirming his respect for individual political decisions, Atiku used the moment to underscore what he described as more significant national concerns. He pointed to what he characterised as “poor governance of the APC” and highlighted the economic and social difficulties he believes it has brought on the country.

“What truly concerns me is the poor governance of the APC and the severe economic and social hardships it has imposed on our people,” he said.

Atiku reiterated his commitment to working with others who share his vision for Nigeria’s future, framing his efforts as aimed at offering Nigerians an alternative that delivers “relief, hope, and progress.” “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,” he said.