A prominent political figure, Abba Atiku, son of the former Vice President, has openly declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the only leader capable of moving Nigeria forward, citing his vision, experience and commitment to national development.

Abba Atiku made the assertion on Monday in Yola while announcing his defection from his former political party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He said his decision was informed by what he described as the President’s bold economic reforms and leadership style since assuming office.

According to him, Nigeria is at a critical stage where decisive leadership is required to address economic challenges, insecurity and governance reforms, adding that President Tinubu has demonstrated the courage needed to reposition the country.

“After careful observation of the political landscape and the direction of governance in Nigeria, I am convinced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains the only man with the capacity and political will to move this nation forward,” Abba Atiku stated.

He noted that the APC-led administration has shown clarity of purpose in policy direction, particularly in economic restructuring and institutional reforms, urging Nigerians to be patient and supportive as the reforms take root.

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Abba Atiku also called on his supporters and other well-meaning Nigerians to rally behind the President, stressing that national interest should take precedence over partisan considerations.

Shuaibu Idris, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Adamawa State, described the defection of Abba Atiku as a strong indication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s growing national acceptance, including within elite opposition circles.

Speaking while receiving Abba Atiku into the party, Idris said the decision of the son of a prominent opposition figure to publicly align with President Tinubu and commit to his re-election bid underscored the President’s expanding appeal and political capital across party and family lines.

According to him, the move sends a clear and unambiguous message about the direction of the country and reflects the confidence Nigerians have in the Tinubu administration.

“The decision of the son of one of the most dominant opposition figures to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and openly commit to his victory speaks volumes,” Idris said.

He praised Abba Atiku’s defection as an independent, bold and patriotic choice, noting that it demonstrated a willingness to rise above personal, family and emotional considerations in favour of what he believes to be the national interest.

Idris assured the new entrant of equal rights and opportunities within the APC, stressing that the party would guarantee a level playing field guided by justice, equity and fairness.

“You have demonstrated conviction in President Tinubu’s leadership. The leader of our party in Adamawa State, the National Security Adviser, receives you warmly and assures you of full inclusion. The APC family is delighted to have you,” he added.

Also speaking, Jamilu Yusuf Danumma, the APC Youth Leader in Adamawa State, said the defection was a major political boost for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. He disclosed that Abba Atiku did not defect alone but came with his entire national political structure.

Danumma further revealed that Abba Atiku had earlier completed his registration at the APC Gwadabawa Ward, where he met with ward and local government party leaders before proceeding to the state secretariat for the formal reception.

The defection was witnessed by party officials, supporters and political stakeholders, who welcomed Abba Atiku into the APC and described his move as a boost to the party’s strength in the state.