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Following the resignation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), where he was a long-time member, he formed alliances with other political figures to embrace the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the opposition’s platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed Atiku’s actions, asserting that it would not impact their prospects in the forthcoming elections.
Atiku, who departed from the PDP to align with the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and other opposition leaders in creating a coalition for the 2027 elections, mentioned that his decision was due to the party’s current direction moving away from its foundational principles.
In reaction to the former presidential candidate’s shift, the APC characterized it as a predictable display of desperation and the total disintegration of a fractured opposition, emphasizing that it would not alter the electoral prospects of the ADC nor represent a significant challenge to their dominance.
A statement from the APC’s Lagos state chapter spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, reiterated that Atiku’s defection highlights the instability and inconsistency long associated with the opposition, urging voters to recognize the significance of leadership founded on genuine achievements and a clear vision for Nigeria's future.
According to the statement released on Wednesday, “Atiku’s exit from the PDP does not surprise discerning Nigerians. His pattern of political wandering symbolizes a man motivated not by principles or ideology, but by relentless personal ambition.
“We further assert that the defection will neither benefit the ADC electorally nor will it pose any significant threat to the APC’s dominance, particularly in Lagos State and throughout the nation.
“Let us be clear: irrespective of whether Atiku is with the PDP, ADC, or any other party, the people of Lagos and indeed Nigeria are wiser. The APC remains the sole party with a proven history of achieving transformative governance, economic growth, and infrastructural advancements.
“We want to stress that this situation creates an opportunity for the voters to evaluate the character and consistency of those aspiring to lead, reaffirming that the APC stands steadfast in its dedication to progress, unity, and a vision-oriented Nigeria.
“Lagos APC also wants to use this chance to encourage our members and supporters to stay focused and continue grassroots mobilization for the upcoming elections, asserting that success is rooted in the party’s unity, performance history, and people-centric agenda.
“Atiku has once again demonstrated that political instability follows him wherever he goes. Nigerians deserve better than recycled politics and self-serving antics. The APC is prepared to lead and to win,” it concluded.
