Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Friday stated that millions of Nigerians are changing their political loyalties out of sheer necessity, emphasizing that survival is their primary concern.

His comments were issued through his media office in response to Ahmadu Fintiri’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He also criticized the increasing trend of opposition governors joining the ruling party.

Atiku argued that these defections reflect mounting political pressure and intimidation rather than genuine support, accusing Bola Tinubu’s administration of using state institutions to harass rivals and push the country toward a one-party system.

He maintained that such intimidation cannot overshadow the harsh economic realities Nigerians face, citing rising food prices, worsening poverty, insecurity, and widespread unemployment—issues he attributed to poor economic management.

“While some governors may switch parties to protect their own interests, ordinary Nigerians are changing political camps because they are fighting to stay afloat. Governors may defect for personal survival. Nigerians are defecting in their millions because they want survival,” Atiku said.

He further urged citizens not to confuse political defections with genuine popularity, questioning what the APC would campaign on in 2027. “What will the APC campaign on in 2027 — hunger? hardship? hopelessness?” he asked.