The Nigerian political landscape witnessed a significant shift this week as Abba Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, officially announced his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). This high-profile defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made public in Abuja, carries substantial weight, especially given Abba’s active role in the 2023 presidential election campaign. His move to the APC comes with an open declaration of support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambition for a second term in the upcoming 2027 general election, signalling a potential realignment of political forces.
Why did Atiku’s son join APC? The answer is multifaceted, but Abba Atiku Abubakar cited the “outstanding leadership style” of Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin and a belief in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” as key motivators. This strategic defection aligns him with the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general election.
Abba’s journey from being a prominent figure in the opposition PDP to embracing the ruling APC marks a pivotal moment. His active involvement in his father’s previous presidential bid makes his current alignment with the incumbent administration a move that analysts are closely scrutinizing. This type of political maneuver often indicates deeper strategic calculations within Nigeria’s dynamic political environment.
Is Tinubu’s second term likely, and how do such defections influence it? Political analysts suggest that high-profile endorsements and defections, particularly from individuals with strong political lineage, can significantly bolster an incumbent’s campaign. Abba’s public support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid for 2027 could serve to consolidate support within the northern political bloc and beyond, projecting an image of growing unity around the President’s agenda.
Speaking at the National Assembly complex, Abba formally resigned from the PDP, stating, “My name is Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, but everyone calls me Abba. I am here today to formally announce my exit from my former party, where we worked in 2023, and my decision to join the APC.” He specifically credited the leadership qualities of Senator Barau Jibrin as a major factor in his decision, highlighting the influence of individual political figures in shaping allegiances.
He further elaborated on his commitment to the new political path, pledging full support for President Tinubu’s re-election. “With this development, I will work with Senator Barau to actualise the second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu come 2027,” Abba affirmed. This declaration is a clear signal of his intention to actively participate in the Tinubu second term strategy, mobilizing his network to achieve this objective.
When considering APC vs PDP ideology, the defection of a key opposition figure’s son underscores the often fluid nature of political principles in Nigeria. While both parties ostensibly aim for national development, their approaches, economic policies, and internal dynamics frequently present contrasting visions. Abba’s move suggests a personal alignment with the current administration’s direction, rather than strictly adhering to his former party’s traditional stance.
As a concrete step, Abba directed all coordinators of his association, the Haske Atiku Organisation, to immediately defect with him and join the APC. This renaming of his political structure to the Haske Bola Tinubu Organisation signifies a complete ideological and operational shift, indicating a full commitment to the new political home and its aspirations for the upcoming election cycle.
The APC National Vice Chairman (North-East), Mustapha Salihu, warmly welcomed Abba, describing the defection as both symbolic and important. Salihu emphasized that the move signaled a new political direction for the APC, which he noted was opening its doors beyond traditional divisions. This move allows for a broader appeal, potentially influencing the Atiku’s son news today and shaping public perception.
Senator Barau Jibrin praised Abba’s decision as courageous and thoughtful, stressing that it was based on ideology and belief in President Tinubu’s leadership, not family ties. Barau revealed that Abba had been observing political developments from abroad, with the administration’s reforms influencing his return and decision. This narrative positions Abba’s choice as an informed and independent one, potentially influencing the Abba Atiku Abubakar political future within the APC.
A presidential aide, Alhaji Mahmoud Abdullahi, also assured Abba of full acceptance within the party, stating, “Just like Atiku, Tinubu is also your father. Your decision is like returning home.” Such statements aim to integrate the new defector seamlessly, reinforcing the message of unity and strength within the APC as it looks towards the Nigerian presidential election 2027 guide.
The Kano State coordinator, Hon. Mubarak Musa, speaking on behalf of the defectors, confirmed the strategic nature of the move, pledging to redouble efforts for the APC in 2027. This collective commitment highlights the potential impact of such group defections on the APC election strategy 2027, as it aims to consolidate power and influence. The political landscape leading up to 2027 will undoubtedly see more such realignments, and understanding why Abba Atiku Abubakar joins APC offers crucial insight into these evolving dynamics.
