Atiku’s Supporters Defect to APC in Abuja, Strengthening Ruling Party’s Base
Abuja, Nigeria – In a major political shift ahead of the next electoral cycle, a significant number of supporters loyal to former Vice President and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Atiku Abubakar, have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The defection, which took place at a well-attended event in Abuja, saw hundreds of Atiku’s followers renouncing their membership in the PDP to pledge allegiance to the ruling party. The former PDP loyalists cited dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership and policies, as well as confidence in APC’s governance, as key reasons for their move.
Prominent among the defectors was a factional leader of Atiku’s campaign structure, who emphasized that their decision was influenced by what they described as a lack of direction within the opposition party. Speaking at the event, the former PDP stalwart expressed optimism about APC’s vision for national development and urged others to join the ruling party for the sake of progress.
Receiving the defectors, top APC officials in the FCT welcomed them warmly, assuring them of equal opportunities and full integration into the party. An APC spokesperson stated that the influx of Atiku’s supporters into the party was a testament to the ruling party’s growing acceptance among Nigerians.
Political analysts suggest that this mass defection could weaken Atiku Abubakar’s influence ahead of future elections and further solidify APC’s stronghold in the region. As political realignments continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape, all eyes remain on the strategies both parties will employ in the run-up to the next elections.
The PDP is yet to officially react to the defection, but party insiders suggest that efforts are underway to address grievances and prevent further losses to the opposition. Meanwhile, the APC continues to celebrate what it calls a “victory for democracy and progressive governance.”
As Nigeria’s political scene evolves, the defection of Atiku’s supporters to APC in Abuja marks another significant development in the country’s dynamic democracy.
