Atiku Urges Opposition Supporters to Avoid Insults, Warns Against APC Advantage
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called on supporters of opposition leaders to avoid trading insults, warning that such behaviour only strengthens the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and undermines efforts to build a unified opposition.
Atiku made the remarks in a social media post, emphasising that anyone who insults him or former presidential candidate Peter Obi “does not mean well for the leaders, the coalition, or Nigeria.” He described ongoing tensions between supporters as a “civil war” that ultimately benefits the APC, which he accused of seeking to preserve the existing political status quo.
The former vice-president’s comments followed a post suggesting that some of his supporters insult Obi while expecting him to remain shielded from criticism. In response, Atiku stressed that opposition leaders and their supporters are stronger when united. “We are better together,” he wrote, urging collaboration rather than division.
Atiku and Obi are both members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a coalition seeking to challenge the APC in the 2027 general election. Supporters of the two politicians have clashed repeatedly over questions of who should be the coalition’s presidential candidate and running mate. Some of Obi’s supporters have even threatened to withdraw their support if he agrees to run as vice president, highlighting the delicate negotiations within the party.
Political analysts say Atiku’s message underscores the importance of cohesion within opposition ranks. With the APC maintaining significant influence at both federal and state levels, internal divisions within the ADC could weaken its prospects ahead of the 2027 polls. By calling for unity and mutual respect among supporters, Atiku appears to be seeking a coordinated strategy to strengthen the coalition’s chances in the upcoming elections.
The former vice-president’s appeal serves as a reminder that personal attacks and public disagreements between supporters of opposition leaders may inadvertently consolidate the ruling party’s position, making unity a critical priority for challengers seeking electoral success.
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