Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar states he is not bothered by Ifeanyi Okowa’s defection to the APC and reiterates his commitment to the PDP
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed concerns regarding the defection of his 2023 presidential election running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
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Atiku, through his media aide, Paul Ibe, clarified that he bears no grudges and remains firmly committed to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Ibe emphasized Atiku’s respect for the freedom of association, a fundamental principle of democracy. “Former Vice-President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, bears no grudges; he has said that, and he means it.
As a democrat, he subscribes to the universality and constitutionality of the freedom of association, which is one of the pillars of democracy, without which democracy would be meaningless,” Ibe stated.
He further reiterated that Atiku has no intention of leaving the PDP, despite speculations. “We have addressed the issues about coalition, and remember that we had a statement to that effect;
As a democrat, he subscribes to the universality and constitutionality of the freedom of association, which is one of the pillars of democracy, without which democracy would be meaningless,” said Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe.
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is not leaving the PDP, and he has said that clearly. As for those talking about him leaving the PDP, we don’t know where they are getting that from,” Ibe added.
This response follows Ifeanyi Okowa’s recent statements expressing regret over his decision to run as Atiku’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, citing a disconnect with the sentiments of his people. Okowa had also expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s eight-year tenure, stating it would ensure national stability.
Okowa’s comments and subsequent defection have sparked discussions within Nigerian political circles, but Atiku Abubakar’s camp has maintained a stance of non-interference and reaffirmed their commitment to the PDP.
