ABUJA, NIGERIA — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian political landscape, Abba Abubakar, the son of former Vice President and PDP chieftain Atiku Abubakar, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress. The defection was made public today, January 15, 2026, marking a significant personal and political departure from his father’s long-standing opposition to the current administration.
Abba Abubakar announced his decision during a formal reception hosted by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, in Abuja. Speaking to a gathering of party leaders and supporters, the younger Abubakar stated that his move was motivated by the desire to align with a vision that prioritizes national progress over partisan sentiment. He further declared his total support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing the administration’s economic reforms and the leadership style of Senator Barau as key factors in his decision.
The defection is seen as a major symbolic blow to the Atiku political dynasty, especially as the former Vice President himself recently led a coalition shift to the African Democratic Congress to challenge the APC in the upcoming general elections. Abba Abubakar, however, emphasized that he is charting his own political path and believes that the ruling party offers the best platform for the youth to contribute to the nation’s future.
Senator Barau Jibrin, while welcoming the new member, described Abba as a bright and strategic addition to the APC family. He noted that the party remains open to all Nigerians who are committed to the Renewed Hope agenda. The Deputy Senate President expressed confidence that Abba’s involvement would further strengthen the party’s reach, particularly among the youth in the northern region where the Abubakar family has historically held significant influence.
As the 2027 election cycle begins to take shape, political analysts suggest that this defection may signal a wider trend of political realignments within prominent families. While the elder Atiku Abubakar continues to mobilize the opposition under the ADC banner alongside other key figures, the exit of his son to the rival APC introduces a new and complex dynamic to the race for the presidency and the control of the northern vote.
The PDP has yet to issue an official statement regarding the departure of one of its prominent young members, but sources within the party indicate that the move was unexpected. For now, Abba Abubakar has hit the ground running, promising to mobilize support across the country to ensure the success of the Tinubu-Shettima ticket in the next general election
About the Author
