Opposition parties differ on Atiku’s son’s defection to APC

Opposition Parties Differ on Atiku’s Son’s Defection to APC

The defection of Abba Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked sharp reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape, exposing divisions within opposition parties and raising questions about Atiku’s political influence ahead of the 2027 elections.  

Abba Abubakar formally announced his defection at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, where he was received by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and other APC leaders from the North-East.

In his remarks, Abba pledged loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and expressed support for Tinubu’s second-term bid, citing admiration for the leadership style of Barau and the policies of the current administration.  

The move has been described by the Lagos State chapter of the APC as a “political earthquake,” with party spokesperson Seye Oladejo arguing that the defection undermines Atiku’s credibility and presidential ambitions.

According to Oladejo, when a politician’s own son rejects his father’s political path, it raises serious doubts about the father’s judgment and leadership.  

Opposition parties, however, have responded with mixed views. The Labour Party, New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) offered divergent interpretations.

Some opposition voices dismissed the defection as a personal choice that should not be tied to Atiku’s political standing, while others suggested it reflects deeper cracks within the opposition’s ability to present a united front against the APC.  

Atiku himself has broken his silence, describing his son’s decision as “entirely personal.” He emphasized that in a democracy, individuals are free to make political choices regardless of family ties.

Atiku insisted that the defection does not affect his own political trajectory or the opposition’s broader struggle.  

Political analysts have noted that Abba’s move could be interpreted as a symbolic vote of no confidence in his father’s political project. The Whistler observed that the defection may weaken Atiku’s influence within the ADC and cast doubts on his electability in 2027. Yet, others argue that Nigerian politics is highly individualistic, and family defections are not uncommon in a system where personal ambition often outweighs party loyalty.  

The defection comes at a critical time when opposition parties are grappling with internal disagreements, leadership tussles, and realignments. 

The Labour Party and NNPP are still struggling to consolidate their bases, while the ADC faces questions about its viability as a platform for Atiku and other opposition figures.

Abba’s defection to the ruling APC, therefore, not only strengthens Tinubu’s camp but also highlights the fragility of opposition unity in Nigeria’s evolving political terrain.  

Abba Abubakar’s defection to the APC has become more than a personal decision; it is a political event with far-reaching implications. It has emboldened the ruling party, unsettled the opposition, and reignited debates about Atiku’s credibility and the future of Nigeria’s opposition politics.

Whether this development proves to be a temporary setback or a lasting blow to Atiku’s ambitions will depend on how the opposition navigates its internal divisions in the months ahead.