Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has reacted strongly to the wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the defectors of prioritizing personal gain over national interest.
Speaking through his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, in an interview, Atiku acknowledged that while Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of association, the motivations behind the defections are self-serving and detrimental to the democratic process.
“The Constitution provides for freedom of association. As a democrat, Atiku Abubakar will not dictate to others with whom they associate,” Ibe said.
“However, we know for a fact that the Tinubu-led APC has used institutions of the state, including anti-corruption agencies, to intimidate and coerce leaders of the opposition into their fold," he further stated.
Atiku's response followed a series of high-profile defections in recent weeks, as several opposition figures announced their switch to the APC.
These moves have sparked concerns about the weakening of democratic opposition in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.
The former Vice President emphasized that the real contest in 2027 will not be about party structures or political muscle, but about the will of the Nigerian people especially the masses who continue to bear the brunt of the country’s economic hardship.
“It is Nigerians long suffering, impoverished, poor citizens who can barely afford to make ends meet, feed their families, send their children to school, or access basic primary healthcare who will ultimately determine the outcome of 2027,” Ibe stated on Atiku’s behalf.
According to him, the wave of defections is not a reflection of political strength, but of fear, intimidation, and self-preservation by elites seeking refuge under the ruling party’s umbrella.
“All of these defectors do not have the people’s interest at heart. What they are doing is to preserve and protect their own interests, not those of the people,” he added.
Atiku further stated that while some may mock smaller opposition platforms such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for lacking elected representatives, what truly matters is their connection with the people.
“The good news is that they have the people. And these are the people that the Tinubu administration and all of its tendencies seek to make life worse for by the day.”
He ended his remarks with a stern warning:
“The battle line has been drawn between good and bad. Between those who are using power for personal gain, and those who will stand with the people.”
