Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that the growing wave of political defections across Nigeria is driven more by survival instincts than genuine loyalty shifts, warning that millions of citizens are changing political camps out of economic desperation.
Atiku made the remarks on Friday in a statement issued by his media office in reaction to the reported defection of Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He expressed concern over what he described as an increasing pattern of opposition governors aligning with the ruling party, arguing that the development reflects mounting political pressure rather than organic political realignment.
The former presidential candidate alleged that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is deploying state institutions to intimidate political opponents in a move he said could steer the country toward a one-party system.
According to him, the wave of defections should not be mistaken for popularity or growing public confidence in the ruling party. He maintained that while some political office holders may be acting to safeguard personal interests, ordinary Nigerians are shifting allegiance because of worsening living conditions.
“Governors may defect for personal survival. Nigerians are defecting in their millions because they want survival,” Atiku stated.
He further argued that intimidation and political maneuvering cannot obscure what he described as harsh economic realities, including rising food prices, increasing poverty levels, persistent insecurity, and widespread unemployment.
Atiku questioned the basis upon which the APC would seek re-election in 2027, asking whether issues such as hunger, hardship, and hopelessness would form the core of its campaign message.
The statement comes amid intensifying political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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