The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed fears that the defection of Abba Atiku, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, could undermine the ruling party, calling such concerns unfounded.
The party also commended Atiku Abubakar for his measured and democratic handling of the situation, noting that the APC’s internal structure and discipline remain strong enough to prevent destabilisation by any single individual.
Deputy National Organising Secretary of the APC, Nze Chidi Duru, spoke to The PUNCH, addressing speculation surrounding Abba Atiku’s move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.
Duru highlighted that the party respected the former Vice President’s public position, pointing out that Atiku had deliberately distanced himself from his son’s political choice and refrained from influencing it.
“It’s difficult to discuss family dynamics; what happens within a family is personal,” Duru said.
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar has issued a statement clarifying that he does not impose his views on his family, his children, or Nigerians. We should respect his stance, as well as his son’s decision to join the APC instead of the ADC.”
He added that the party applauded Atiku for his mature response to a situation that some might see as politically sensitive.
“We commend him for his thoughtful handling of a matter that could be perceived as against his interests,” Duru stated. “We also hope Nigerians will respect both his views and those of his son, who has chosen to affiliate with the APC rather than the ADC.”
Addressing speculation that Abba Atiku might act as a mole within the party, Duru dismissed such notions, affirming that the APC’s organisational strength and discipline remain intact.
“We welcome diverse opinions and all individuals who recognise the strength of the APC,” he said.
“No single person can disrupt the organisation or the discipline that defines the APC. Our party is founded on several key pillars, including discipline, hierarchy, and a commitment to leadership that advances Nigeria for the good of all citizens.”
Duru’s comments followed a public statement by Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, in which he clarified that his son’s defection was a personal choice.
On Thursday, Atiku wrote on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account:
“The decision of my son, Abba Abubakar, to join the APC is entirely personal. In a democracy, such choices are neither unusual nor alarming, even when family and politics intersect. I do not coerce my children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians.”
While distancing himself from his son’s political move, Atiku reiterated his criticism of the APC-led Federal Government, citing governance challenges.
“My concern remains the poor governance of the APC and the economic and social hardships it has imposed on Nigerians. I remain committed to working with like-minded patriots to restore good governance and provide citizens with a credible alternative that brings relief, hope, and progress,” he added.
Abba Atiku officially announced his defection on Thursday at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, where he was welcomed by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, along with other APC leaders from the North-East.
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