Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has responded to widespread inquiries from Nigerians regarding recent political shifts, particularly the defection of several members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In his statement, Atiku emphasized the importance of fundamental democratic rights.
“Freedom of association and expression are not optional in a democracy; they are fundamental rights.”
He further underscored that these rights, along with the rule of law, credible elections, and accountability, form the foundation of a functioning democracy. He warned, “Undermine any of these, and democracy itself begins to crumble.”
Addressing concerns raised over his recent visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Atiku defended the meeting, stating there was no ulterior motive behind it.
He remarked, “Buhari is not only a former leader but a significant statesman in the Nigerian political landscape. During the 2013 opposition merger, the leaders of the time consulted widely — including visits to Obasanjo and Babangida. So why is it now sacrilegious for me and other leaders to visit Buhari in Kaduna?”
Atiku also called out the inconsistency in the political discourse surrounding alliances and visits, highlighting what he perceives as hypocrisy.
“When PDP leaders are busy sipping tea and brokering power deals with President Tinubu, it’s called strategic alliance. But the moment I greet Peter Obi, El-Rufa’i, or visit Buhari, it becomes a national emergency,” he stated.
The former presidential candidate then turned his focus to the current political climate, emphasizing that the true struggle is not between political parties, but rather between the Nigerian people and the “abysmal failure” of the Tinubu administration.
He criticized the government’s handling of the economy, stating, “The economy is in freefall. Inflation is choking the masses. Jobs are vanishing. Youth restiveness is surging to terrifying levels.”
The former vice President called for national unity to address these pressing issues.
Atiku urged Nigerians to resist divisive tactics aimed at distracting from the country’s real challenges.
“We must reject every attempt to distract us with ethnic, regional, or religious sentiments. These are tools of manipulation, designed to divide and conquer, used by those with nothing else to offer,” he said.