Politics
Atiku Reacts as Son, Abba Abubakar, Dumps PDP for APC Ahead of 2027
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reacted to the defection of his son, Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, popularly known as Abba, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a personal decision in line with democratic principles.
Abba was formally received into the APC on Tuesday at the National Assembly by senior party stakeholders, in a move that has generated significant political attention ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Announcing his defection, Abba declared his resignation from the PDP and pledged his full support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He cited the leadership style of the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, as a major influence on his decision.
“My name is Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, but everyone calls me Abba. I am here today to formally announce my exit from my former party and my decision to join the APC,” he said.
“With this development, I will work closely with Senator Barau to actualise the second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.”
He also announced the dissolution of his political group, Haske Atiku Association, directing its members and coordinators to join the APC. The group was subsequently renamed the Haske Bola Tinubu Organisation, signalling a full political realignment ahead of 2027.
Welcoming Abba into the party, APC leaders described his move as courageous and ideological, stressing that it was driven by conviction rather than family ties. They assured him and his supporters of full integration and support within the party structure.
According to APC officials, Abba, who had been following Nigerian political developments from the United States, returned home after being impressed by the Tinubu administration’s reforms and engagement strategies.
Atiku Responds
Reacting to the development, Atiku Abubakar distanced himself from his son’s political choice, emphasising that democracy allows for divergent views—even within families.
“The decision of my son, Abba Abubakar, to join the APC is entirely personal,” Atiku said in a statement.
“In a democracy, such choices are neither unusual nor alarming, even when family and politics intersect. As a democrat, I do not coerce my own children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians.”
However, the former vice president maintained his criticism of the ruling party, blaming the APC for what he described as poor governance and worsening economic and social conditions in the country.
“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 added.
The defection underscores the intensifying political realignments ahead of 2027, as major parties position themselves for the next electoral cycle.
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