The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has sharply criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over what it described as a “self-imposed indiscretion and disrespect” for the office of the President, specifically faulting his decision to address President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on a first-name basis as “Bola”.
In an official statement issued on October 12, 2026, signed by Campaign Spokesperson Dele Alake, the APC campaign organization expressed concern over the political conduct of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate.
The council noted that as a former Vice President and an aspirant to the highest office in the country, Atiku is expected to uphold a higher standard of decorum, decency, and deference to constituted authority.
According to the statement, political animosity and ambition have affected Atiku’s statesmanship since his defeat in the last presidential election.
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The council accused the former Vice President of setting a poor example for younger political actors instead of serving as a model of decency in political behavior.
Despite criticizing Atiku’s conduct, the APC Presidential Campaign Council announced that it has directed all party leaders, spokespersons, members, and support groups to maintain high standards of courtesy. The council instructed party members to extend all due respect and regard to Atiku Abubakar as a former Vice President and fellow presidential candidate.
Grounding its position in progressive ideals and traditional African values of respect, the campaign council stated that it would not emulate Atiku’s approach to political engagement.
Moving forward, the campaign affirmed that its focus will remain strictly issue-based as President Bola Tinubu seeks a second-term mandate from Nigerians.
The council emphasized that its campaign will concentrate on promoting party programs, highlighting the achievements of the current administration, and detailing how the government is transitioning Nigeria from economic reforms to sustained prosperity.
