Questions surrounding the sincerity of Abubakar “Abba” Atiku’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) have become a focal point of political discussion, with party chieftain Joe Igbokwe expressing a mix of welcome and apprehension. Igbokwe’s reaction, shared via social media, highlights a common concern within political circles about potential internal sabotage following such a high-profile move.
Joe Igbokwe publicly stated his hope that Abba Atiku’s reported joining of the APC is genuine, emphasizing the party’s desire to avoid any form of internal dissent or betrayal. His cautious optimism underscores the complex dynamics at play when prominent political figures switch allegiances, particularly within large, established parties like the APC.
Featured snippet paragraph: The answer to whether Abba Atiku’s APC defection is sincere lies in ongoing political observation. While some, like Joe Igbokwe, express caution, others in the APC welcome the move, seeing it as a significant gain. The true impact will unfold as Abba Atiku engages with party activities and President Tinubu’s agenda.
Naijaonpoint has reported that Abba Atiku officially transitioned from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC on January 15th. This event took place at the National Assembly complex in Abuja and was marked by his reception from key APC leaders, including the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin.
During the formal induction into the APC, Abba Atiku made a commitment to actively support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign in 2027. He also instructed his political network to align with the APC’s established ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ signaling a clear intent to contribute to the party’s objectives.
The timing of Abba Atiku’s decision has drawn considerable attention, especially given that it occurred shortly after his father, Atiku Abubakar, departed the PDP to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
This divergence in political affiliation between father and son has intensified national political discourse. Atiku Abubakar’s move to the ADC is widely interpreted as a strategic effort to consolidate opposition forces for the 2027 electoral contest.
In response to his son’s defection, Atiku Abubakar maintained that the decision was a personal one. He articulated that Abba’s choice should not be misconstrued as a reflection of his own political beliefs, emphasizing the democratic principle of individual freedom of choice.
Atiku Abubakar reiterated his criticisms of the current APC-led administration and reaffirmed his dedication to collaborating with allies to present a viable alternative platform for the upcoming 2027 elections.
Reactions within the APC have been varied. Some party figures have lauded Abba Atiku’s move as a positive symbolic gesture, while others have advised a more measured approach to assessing its implications.
The APC National Vice Chairman for the North-East, Mustapha Salihu, characterized the defection as an example of ‘politics without borders,’ formally welcoming Abba Atiku into the party fold.
Senator Barau Jibrin praised Abba Atiku’s decision, describing it as a courageous act stemming from personal conviction rather than familial obligation, further emphasizing the perceived independent nature of the move.
Alhaji Mahmoud Abdullahi, a presidential aide, went further, framing Abba Atiku’s defection as a significant ‘return home’ to the ruling party, highlighting its strategic importance for the APC.
The Lagos State chapter of the APC adopted a more assertive stance, branding Abba Atiku’s defection as a substantial blow to his father, Atiku Abubakar’s, political standing and credibility.
Seye Oladejo, the party’s spokesman, described the event as a ‘political earthquake,’ signifying Abba Atiku’s abandonment of what he termed a ‘pretentious ADC contraption’ for the more robust APC.
Oladejo elaborated that when an individual’s own son rejects their political judgment and embraces a different path, it raises critical questions about that individual’s credibility for the entire nation.
However, not all members of the APC shared in the celebratory atmosphere. Adamu Garba, a former APC presidential aspirant, urged caution among party members, viewing the defection as a potentially troubling development rather than a straightforward cause for jubilation.
Abba Atiku’s defection represents the latest instance of political realignment reshaping party allegiances across Nigeria. This trend is particularly noticeable in the northern regions, where both the APC and emerging opposition coalitions are actively maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections.
