Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar on Friday said that millions of Nigerians are switching political allegiance out of sheer necessity, saying their primary concern is survival.
Atiku’s remark was contained in a statement released by his media office in reaction to the defection of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He criticized the growing trend of opposition governors joining the ruling party.
Atiku argued that the spate of defections reflects mounting pressure and political intimidation rather than genuine support, alleging that the administration of Bola Tinubu is deploying state institutions to harass rivals in an attempt to edge the country toward a one-party system.
Atiku 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.
