2027: Atiku, PDP Dismiss Tinubu Endorsements, Say APC Is Panicking

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have downplayed recent endorsements of President Bola Tinubu by governors and key figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the moves as signs of panic and desperation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, in a statement reported by Vanguard, said the opposition coalition remains confident and focused, likening their preparation to that of a student who is well-prepared for an exam.

“When you’ve prepared diligently for an exam, you can sleep soundly the night before, waking up assured of success. That’s the position of our coalition,” Ibe said.

He emphasized that the real verdict on the 2027 elections would come from the Nigerian people, not political theatrics orchestrated by the ruling party.

Ibe also criticized the Tinubu administration’s handling of national issues, accusing it of neglecting insecurity, economic hardship, and high cost of living while focusing on political consolidation.

“Insecurity is worsening, with insurgents reclaiming territories in Borno and elsewhere. Meanwhile, Nigerians are struggling to survive, and the government seems more concerned with political games than with real governance,” he said.

Furthermore, Ibe accused the APC of weaponizing anti-corruption agencies to pressure opposition politicians into defecting, claiming many recent defections were not based on ideology but rather coercion.

“These defections are not ideological. Politicians are being held hostage and coerced. Some face corruption threats and are forced to defect as a form of political ransom,” he alleged, citing developments in Delta State and other regions.

Atiku and the PDP continue to rally their coalition, expressing confidence in their ability to unseat the APC in the next election cycle.