By Abiola Olawale
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed the recent defection of his 2023 presidential running mate, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement released on Friday, Atiku emphasized that the freedom to associate politically is a cornerstone of democracy, expressing no grudges against those choosing to realign.
Recall that on Wednesday, Okowa, Oborevwori and host of other members of the PDP dumped the party for the APC.
This mass exodus, which included senior administration officials, local government chairmen, and grassroots supporters, has been described by many as a strategic move ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to the development, Atiku said that defections and political alignments are part of the country’s evolving democratic culture, and must not be seen as betrayal.
“As someone who believes deeply in democratic ideals, I bear no ill will towards anyone who chooses a different political path,” he said.
“Politics will always involve shifting alliances — we’ve seen them in the past and we’ll see more in the future.”
Also, Atiku addressed criticism that trailed his recent visit to former president Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna.
Earlier this month, the ex-VP led a delegation, including Nasir el-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna; Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Sokoto; and Isa Pantami, former minister of communications, to Buhari’s residence.
The former vice-president said his visit was delayed due to his obligations in Adamawa, where he had taken part in Sallah celebrations.
Days after the visit, the move drew widespread criticism, particularly from within the PDP, with many labeling it as unacceptable and a show of anti-party activity.
However, Abubakar dismissed the outrage as hypocritical, citing past instances when opposition leaders consulted former presidents without backlash.
He continued: “It is not a sin to visit Buhari.
“During the 2013 opposition merger talks, key political figures made visits to Obasanjo and Babangida — so why is it now sacrilegious to visit Buhari?
“When PDP leaders drink tea with Tinubu and cut power-sharing deals, it is called ‘strategy.
“But when I greet Peter Obi, meet Nasir el-Rufai, or visit Buhari, it becomes a national scandal.”
