Abba Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His move is reportedly aimed at mobilizing support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign in 2027.
Official Reception
The younger Abubakar was officially welcomed into the APC fold on Thursday, January 15, in Abuja. He was received by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and the APC National Vice Chairman (North-East), Mustafa Salihu.
Rebranding for Tinubu
In a significant shift of allegiance, reports indicate that Abba has renamed his political support group. Originally founded in 2022 as the “Atiku Heske Organisation,” the group has now been rebranded as the “Heske Bola Tinubu Organisation” to align with the president’s agenda.
Family Conflict?
This development comes at a time when his father, Atiku Abubakar, remains a vocal critic of the Tinubu administration. The former vice president recently defected from the PDP to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to pursue his own presidential ambitions for 2027, following his Supreme Court loss to Tinubu in the 2023 elections.
Nigerians React
The defection has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with many questioning the implications for the former vice president’s political influence and family unity.
Elder Otunba wrote:
“Even Atiku son no believe in him papa I see people calling him mole. You guys don’t know what it means to support your father’s enemy It’s like Seyi Tinubu joining ADC, make it make sense abeg!”
Comrade Iba Monso commented:
“Hunger de real. Atiku that can’t unite his family that all his data boys think is the one that can unseat Tinubu. Peter Obi or nothing.”
Prince Oluwakayode criticized the coverage:
“Nigeria National Tv station turn to political slave, when was the last time you reported bandit, bokoharam killing Nigerians, shame on you.”
Jeff Chukwumezie noted the political damage:
“How can anyone else believe in Atiku when his biological son doesn’t trust him. A great weapon for APC to campaign with.”
Menelik questioned the reception venue:
“Why is Barau Jibrin fond of receiveing decampees in his office in Abuja? . He’s about the only politician and NASS member who constantly does this.”