Atiku Responds to Okowa’s Defection: “I Bear No Grudge, I’m Not Leaving PDP”

 

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has stated that he harbors no resentment toward his former running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, over his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking through his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku emphasized that political association is a democratic right and must be respected.

“Alhaji Atiku Abubakar bears no grudges; he has said that, and he means it,” Ibe said on Monday. “As a democrat, he subscribes to the universality and constitutionality of freedom of association.”

Atiku also reaffirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing speculations about his possible departure. “Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is not leaving the PDP,” Ibe stressed.

Okowa, the former Delta State governor, recently expressed regret over joining Atiku’s 2023 presidential ticket, stating it went against the will of his people; He also backed President Bola Tinubu to complete a full eight-year tenure for the sake of national stability.

Despite the growing wave of defections and internal challenges facing the PDP, Atiku remains resolute in his loyalty to the party.