Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has responded to growing criticism over his recent visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari, calling out what he describes as “hypocrisy and selective outrage” in Nigeria’s political landscape.
In a strongly worded statement shared on his official social media platforms, Atiku defended the visit, stating that engaging with political figures—regardless of party affiliation—is a normal and necessary part of democratic politics.
“Some have resorted to insults because I visited former President Muhammadu Buhari,” Atiku said. “Let’s not rewrite history: Buhari is not only a former leader but a significant statesman in the Nigerian political landscape.”
Drawing parallels with historical precedents, Atiku reminded Nigerians that consultations across party lines have always been part of political strategy in the country. He cited the 2013 opposition merger where key political figures visited former leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida to build consensus.
“So why is it now sacrilegious for me and other leaders to visit Buhari in Kaduna?” he asked. “If you truly believe in freedom of association, then you must respect the rights of all political actors to engage, regardless of party lines.”
Atiku went further to criticize what he described as a double standard. He noted that when PDP leaders meet with President Bola Tinubu, it is often framed as “strategic alliance,” but his own interactions with opposition figures attract condemnation.
“When PDP leaders are busy sipping tea and brokering power deals with President Tinubu, it’s called strategic alliance. But the moment I greet Peter Obi, el-Rufai, or visit Buhari, it becomes a national emergency.”
The statement comes at a time of increased political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general elections. Several members of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have recently defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), sparking speculation about shifting alliances.
Atiku used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to democratic values such as freedom of association and political plurality, saying that these rights are not negotiable in a functional democracy.
“Freedom of association and expression are not optional in a democracy — they are fundamental rights,” he wrote. “Defections, alliances, and realignments are part and parcel of democratic politics. We’ve seen them before, and we’ll see them again.”
Atiku’s remarks have sparked fresh conversations online, with many Nigerians weighing in on the importance of political tolerance and cross-party dialogue in a deeply polarized political climate.
