Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has distanced himself from the decision of his son, Abubakar Atiku Abubakar (Abba), to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a purely personal choice.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Atiku said Abba’s decision to join the ruling party was taken independently and should not be misconstrued as reflecting his own political stance or convictions.

“The decision of my son, Abba Abubakar, to join the APC is entirely personal,” Atiku said, noting that such choices are not unusual in a democratic setting, even when politics intersects with family relationships.

He stressed that he does not impose his political beliefs on his children or anyone else, adding that freedom of conscience remains a core democratic value.

“As a democrat, I do not coerce my own children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians,” he stated.

However, the former Vice President expressed deep concern over what he described as the poor governance record of the APC, accusing the ruling party of subjecting Nigerians to severe economic and social hardships.

“What truly concerns me is the poor governance of the APC and the severe economic and social hardships it has imposed on our people,” Atiku said.

Reaffirming his political resolve, Atiku said he remains committed to working with like-minded Nigerians to chart a new course for the country.

“I remain resolute in working with like-minded patriots to restore good governance and offer Nigerians a credible alternative that brings relief, hope, and progress,” he added.

Abba’s defection to the APC earlier on Wednesday had sparked widespread political reactions, given his father’s status as one of the leading opposition figures in the country.