Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said that the 2027 presidential election will not be about political parties like APC or PDP, but about Nigerians standing up against the suffering caused by the Tinubu-led government.

Atiku made this statement while reacting to recent defections from the opposition party, PDP, to the ruling party, APC. Notable politicians like Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa recently joined the APC.

According to Atiku, democracy allows people the right to choose their political affiliations. He said he has no issues with anyone switching parties, as this is normal in democratic systems. He stressed that freedom of association, credible elections, and rule of law are all important parts of a working democracy.

Atiku also addressed the backlash he received after visiting former President Muhammadu Buhari. He explained that meeting with past leaders isn’t new in politics and reminded people that during the 2013 opposition merger, leaders met with former presidents like Obasanjo and Babangida. He questioned why such visits are now being criticized.

He emphasized that the 2027 election is not about APC, PDP, or any other party. Instead, it’s about Nigerians who are struggling due to poor leadership. He pointed out how inflation is rising, jobs are disappearing, and the youth are becoming more frustrated.

Atiku concluded by warning against being divided by ethnicity or religion. He said such tactics are only used to distract and control the people. The real issue, he said, is the current government’s failure, and Nigerians must come together to change it.