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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Former Vice President of Nigeria and leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has said the 2027 general election will not just be another routine political contest, but a defining moment between President Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and ordinary Nigerians.
Atiku spoke on Friday while reacting to the recent defection of Ahmadu Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State, from the opposition fold a move that has stirred fresh conversations about shifting political loyalties ahead of 2027.
In a statement released by his media office in Abuja, the former presidential candidate struck a reflective tone, noting that political realignments are not new in Nigeria’s democratic experience.
“Every politician is free to choose a path. I respect that right,” Atiku said, acknowledging that decisions to defect are personal and often strategic.
He extended that principle even to his own household.
“Even my children are free to take independent political positions. However, anyone, including my son who chooses to stand with Nigerians rather than the APC is standing on the side of patriotism,” he stated.
Still, Atiku cautioned against interpreting the growing number of defections from opposition ranks as proof of APC’s popularity or strength. In his view, the trend reflects something deeper and more troubling.
He alleged that the current administration is mounting pressure on opposition figures and using state institutions as tools of intimidation in what he described as an attempt to edge Nigeria toward a one-party system.
“This government fears accountability. It fears credible elections. It fears the people,” he said pointedly.
Beyond the political maneuvering, Atiku insisted that the everyday struggles of Nigerians cannot be glossed over. According to him, the hardship in the country remains stark and undeniable.
He pointed to “rising hunger, crushing poverty, worsening insecurity, and mass unemployment caused by failed economic policies” as the realities shaping public sentiment.
“Governors may defect for personal survival. Nigerians are defecting in their millions because they want survival,” he declared.
Atiku urged citizens not to confuse political cross-carpeting with genuine public support, emphasizing that the true measure of popularity would be determined at the polls.
“What will the APC campaign on in 2027 hunger, hardship, hopelessness?” he asked.
Concluding his remarks, the former Vice President reminded Nigerians that power ultimately resides with the people and warned against trading votes for short-term gain.
“Do not trade your future. Do not mortgage your children’s tomorrow. In 2027, the people will have their say and their will shall prevail,” he said.