The All Progressives Congress (APC) has downplayed concerns that the defection of Abba Atiku could destabilise the ruling party, praising former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his composed and hands-off reaction.

The party insisted that its strong internal discipline and organisational structure make it impervious to attempts at infiltration.

APC Deputy National Organising Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru, addressed the speculation surrounding Abba Atiku’s move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, highlighting the former Vice President’s public stance.

Duru said the party respected Atiku’s position, noting that he had clearly distanced himself from his son’s political decision and refrained from imposing his views, demonstrating democratic values.

“It is difficult to discuss father and son relationships publicly. What happens in the family remains in the family. His Excellency Atiku Abubakar has made his stance clear—he does not impose on his family, children, or Nigerians,” Duru stated.

He added, “We commend him for his mature response to what many may consider contrary to his interests. Nigerians should respect both his views and those of his son, who chose the APC over the ADC.”

Responding to suggestions that Abba Atiku might act as a mole within the ruling party, Duru dismissed the notion, emphasizing that the APC’s organisational strength and discipline cannot be undermined by a single individual.

“We welcome diverse opinions and all categories of people who recognise the strength of the APC. It is impossible for one person to disrupt the party’s organisation or its discipline. APC is anchored on pillars of discipline, hierarchy, and leadership, and remains focused on steering Nigeria toward progress,” he said.

The remarks followed Atiku Abubakar’s own clarification regarding his son’s defection. On Thursday, he wrote via his verified X account (formerly Twitter) that Abba’s decision was entirely personal.

“In a democracy, such choices are neither unusual nor alarming, even when family and politics intersect. I do not coerce my children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians,” Atiku said.

However, the former Vice President reiterated his criticism of the APC-led Federal Government, citing governance failures and economic hardships. He stated, “What concerns me is the poor governance of the APC and the severe economic and social hardships imposed on our people. I remain committed to working with like-minded patriots to restore good governance and provide Nigerians with a credible alternative that brings relief, hope, and progress.”

Abba Atiku formally announced his defection on Thursday at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, where he was welcomed by APC leaders, including the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin.

He pledged support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign, praising the President’s policies and Senator Barau’s leadership style. He also instructed members of his political movement, the Haske Atiku Organisation, to join the APC in backing the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Following the defection, the group was renamed the Haske Bola Tinubu Organisation, signalling full alignment with the APC and President Tinubu’s re-election bid.