The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former vice president Atiku Abubakar yesterday denounced recent support for President Bola Tinubu from governors and APC stakeholders as an indication of desperation and fear.
The PDP cited broad discontent with Tinubu’s leadership and economic policies, despite the former vice president’s assurance that the coalition could defeat the APC in the 2027 elections.
Atiku Abubakar’s media adviser, Mazi Paul Ibe, said the coalition is not deterred by the endorsements, comparing the scenario to a student who has studied hard for a test.
He said, “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.
“Nigerians are the ultimate judges. Their endorsements will determine the outcome, not the political manoeuvrings of the ruling party. The recent endorsements reveal the panicked state of this administration.
He mentioned that Insecurity is at an unprecedented level, with territories being reclaimed by insurgents in Borno State and other regions.
The cost of living is unbearable. Families struggle to feed themselves, access healthcare, or send their children to school. As school fees are due, many are weighed down by these burdens. Yet, the government has done little to address these challenges, choosing instead to focus on political games.”
Additionally, he alleged that Tinubu’s government was pressuring opposition leaders to join the APC by employing anti-corruption organisations.
On his part, the National Organising Secretary of the PDP, Alhaji Umar Bature, said endorsements don’t guarantee victory.
He recalled that former President Goodluck Jonathan had the endorsements of 21 governors in 2014 but still lost the election.
He added that endorsements are merely cosmetic. People resort to them when they know they’re not serving the interests of the people they claim to represent.
“There is no crisis. Members are simply expressing their views. If they say they want to leave the party, time will tell. These matters will resolve themselves.”
