Atiku also argued that the spate of defections reflects political intimidation rather than genuine support for President Tinubu.
By Kehinde Okeowo
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has argued that millions of Nigerians switching political allegiance are doing so for survival.
He made this known recently in a statement released by his media office in reaction to the defection of Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
On Friday, Governor Fintiri joined the ruling APC alongside twenty-two of the commissioners serving in his cabinet and all local PDP officials.
While justifying his decision in a broadcast to the people of the state, the governor said the move would enable the state to support President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” on social welfare, infrastructure, housing, and inclusive economic development.
He added: “After wide consultations with a large spectrum of our people, we have resolved to politically align Adamawa State with the APC.
“This alignment would enable Adamawa to effectively support and leverage the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. This aims to transform the nation in critical sectors, including social welfare, infrastructure, housing, and inclusive economic development.”
Reacting to Fintiri’s decision to dump the PDP, Atiku criticised the growing trend of opposition governors joining the ruling party.
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He argued that the spate of defections reflects mounting pressure and political intimidation rather than genuine support.
He also alleged that President Tinubu’s administration deploys state institutions to harass rivals in an attempt to edge the country towards a one-party system.
The former Vice President maintained that intimidation tactics cannot distract from the severe economic realities confronting citizens, pointing to escalating food prices, deepening poverty, deteriorating security, and widespread joblessness, which he blamed on ineffective economic management.
“While some governors may switch parties to protect their own interests, ordinary Nigerians are changing political camps because they are fighting to stay afloat.
“Governors may defect for personal survival. Nigerians are defecting in their millions because they want survival,” Atiku said.
He urged citizens not to equate political “cross-carpeting” with popularity, questioning what the APC would campaign on in 2027.
“What will the APC campaign on in 2027 — hunger? Hardship? Hopelessness?” he asked.
