By Hunvio Elizabeth Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed public reactions trailing the defection of his son, Abba Abubakar, t...
By Hunvio Elizabeth
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed public reactions trailing the defection of his son, Abba Abubakar, to the ruling All Progressives Congress, making it clear that the move has no bearing on his own political beliefs or opposition role.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Atiku described his son’s decision as a purely personal choice, stressing that political freedom is a core pillar of democracy, even when such decisions occur within the same family. He noted that differences in political alignment are neither strange nor alarming in a democratic society.
Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, emphasized that he does not impose his political convictions on his children, just as he would not seek to impose them on Nigerians. According to him, matters of conscience must remain personal and free from coercion.
While distancing himself from his son’s political move, the former vice president used the opportunity to restate his strong criticism of the APC-led government. He said his real concern lies with what he described as poor governance and the deepening economic and social hardships facing Nigerians under the current administration.
Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to working with like minded patriots across the country to challenge the ruling party and present Nigerians with what he called a credible alternative anchored on good governance, relief from hardship, renewed hope and national progress.
Abba Abubakar’s defection to the APC had earlier sparked widespread political debate, largely because of Atiku’s long standing position as one of the leading opposition figures in the country. Many observers viewed the move as politically symbolic, given the sharp divide between the APC and the PDP.
However, Atiku’s response appears aimed at drawing a clear line between family decisions and his own political journey, underscoring that his resolve to oppose the APC and advocate for better governance remains firm and unchanged.
Photo Credit: Arise news

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