### Atiku's Son Defects to APC, Sparking Political Controversy Abba Atiku Abubakar, the son of former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has made headlines by defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This significant political shift comes as he pledges to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election campaign for the 2027 elections. Atiku Abubakar, who was the PDP's presidential candidate in 2023, has publicly stated that his son's decision is a personal choice and not a cause for alarm, emphasizing the normalcy of differing political affiliations within families in a democratic society [https://www.informationng.com/2026/01/my-sons-defection-to-apc-is-his-personal-choice-atiku.html]. ### Breakdown of the Defection and Its Implications 1. **Defection Announcement**: - Abba Atiku Abubakar officially announced his defection on January 15, 2026, during a gathering at the National Assembly in Abuja, where he was welcomed by APC officials [https://www.informationng.com/2026/01/atikus-son-dumps-pdp-for-apc-backs-tinubus-re-election-in-2027.html]. 2. **Political Context**: - The defection is seen as a strategic move ahead of the 2027 general elections, as Abba vows to mobilize support for Tinubu's re-election [https://www.arise.tv/atikus-son-joins-apc-pledges-support-for-tinubu-2027-bid]. - This shift is particularly notable given that Atiku Abubakar is the leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which positions him in direct opposition to his son's new political alignment [https://www.thegazellenews.com/atikus-son-rejects-fathers-adc-defects-to-apc-pledges-to-deliver-tinubus-second-term]. 3. **Atiku's Response**: - Atiku Abubakar has publicly distanced himself from his son's decision, reiterating that it is a personal choice and should not be interpreted as a reflection of his own political beliefs [https://www.ripplesnigeria.com/atiku-says-sons-defection-to-apc-a-personal-decision]. - He emphasized that political choices made by family members are common in a democracy, suggesting that such decisions should be respected [https://www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com/2027-atikus-son-defects-to-apc-backs-tinubus-re-election-bid]. ### Supporting Evidence and Reactions - **Public and Political Reactions**: - The defection has sparked various reactions across the political landscape, with some viewing it as a betrayal while others see it as a pragmatic move in the evolving political dynamics of Nigeria [https://www.daylightng.com/drama-as-atikus-son-joins-apc-backs-tinubus-re-election]. - **Statements from Political Analysts**: - Analysts suggest that Abba's move could significantly impact the political strategies of both the PDP and APC as they prepare for the upcoming elections [https://www.cknnigeria.com/2026/01/atikus-son-dumps-pdp-for-apc-supports.html]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment in Nigerian Politics In summary, **Abba Atiku Abubakar's defection to the APC represents a pivotal moment in Nigerian politics**, highlighting the complexities of familial political affiliations and the shifting allegiances as the country approaches the 2027 elections. 1. **Key Takeaway**: The defection underscores the fluid nature of political loyalty in Nigeria, particularly within influential families. 2. **Implications for Future Elections**: This move may reshape the political landscape, influencing voter sentiments and party strategies as the elections draw near. 3. **Atiku's Stance**: Atiku Abubakar's response reflects a broader acceptance of personal political choices, emphasizing the democratic principle of individual agency in political affiliations [https://www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com/atikus-son-defects-to-apc-backs-tinubus-re-election-bid].