Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said that the decision of his son, Abba Abubakar, to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a personal choice and has nothing to do with his own political position or beliefs.
Atiku made this known in a public statement following reports that his son had aligned with the ruling APC, a development that sparked reactions across political circles and on social media.
According to Atiku, the move by his son should not be seen as unusual in a democratic system, even when it involves close family members with different political views.
“The decision of my son, Abba Abubakar, to join the APC is entirely personal,” Atiku said. “In a democracy, such choices are neither unusual nor alarming, even when family and politics intersect.”
The former vice president, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, stressed that he does not impose his political beliefs on his children or anyone else.
“As a democrat, I do not coerce my own children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians,” he added.
Atiku’s statement comes at a time when political alignments ahead of future elections are already generating public debate. The APC, which has been in power at the federal level since 2015, continues to attract and lose members as politicians reposition themselves.
Abba Abubakar’s reported move to the APC led some observers to speculate about possible cracks within Atiku’s political base or a shift in his own political plans. However, Atiku’s response appeared aimed at shutting down such speculation.
Rather than focus on his son’s political choice, Atiku turned his attention to what he described as the failures of the APC-led government. He said his major concern remains the quality of governance in the country and the hardship Nigerians are facing.
“What truly concerns me is the poor governance of the APC and the severe economic and social hardships it has imposed on our people,” he said.
Nigeria has been facing serious economic challenges in recent years, including high inflation, rising cost of living, unemployment, and currency instability. Many Nigerians have struggled with increased food prices, transport costs, and declining purchasing power.
Opposition figures, including Atiku, have often blamed these problems on policies of the APC government, arguing that ordinary citizens are paying the price for poor decisions and weak economic management.
Atiku, who served as vice president from 1999 to 2007 under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has remained one of the most prominent voices in opposition politics. He has contested the presidency multiple times and is known for his strong views on economic reform, restructuring, and private sector-led growth.
In his latest statement, Atiku said he remains committed to working with others who share his vision of better governance and national progress.
“I remain resolute in working with like-minded patriots to restore good governance and offer Nigerians a credible alternative that brings relief, hope, and progress,” he said.
His comments suggest that despite personal family developments, he is not backing away from his political role or criticism of the ruling party.
In the past, several Nigerian politicians have had relatives who openly supported rival parties, often citing personal conviction or political opportunity.
Meanwhile, the APC has not officially commented on Abba Abubakar’s reported membership or role within the party. It is also unclear whether he intends to seek any political office or simply align with the party as a supporter.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic and social challenges, political tensions are expected to rise ahead of future elections. Statements like Atiku’s are likely to shape public debate about leadership, accountability, and the direction of the country.
For now, Atiku appears determined to separate personal family decisions from his political mission, while maintaining pressure on the ruling party over governance and the welfare of Nigerians.
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