Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep regret over his role in the creation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2015 general elections, stating that Nigeria’s current situation has worsened significantly compared to the period before the party came to power.
Speaking on Thursday at a press briefing in Abuja, where leading opposition figures converged to deliberate on the state of the nation and emerging political realignments ahead of 2027, Atiku reflected on the political developments that culminated in the 2014 coalition. He recalled that major opposition leaders at the time joined forces under the APC platform to challenge the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, citing widespread concerns about insecurity and economic decline.
According to him, the decision to form the coalition was influenced by a shared belief that Nigeria’s democratic framework was under threat and that decisive action was necessary to change the country’s direction. He explained that the alliance was built on the conviction that the nation needed urgent rescue from mounting security challenges and a struggling economy.
However, Atiku noted that the current realities have surpassed the very issues that motivated the formation of the APC over a decade ago. He lamented that instead of witnessing improvement, Nigerians are grappling with even more severe hardships, suggesting that the original objectives of the coalition have not been realized.
He emphasized that the experience offers important lessons for any future political partnerships. According to him, any new coalition or opposition movement must be intentional, principled, and focused squarely on strengthening democratic institutions and rebuilding public trust in governance.
Atiku stressed that the overriding goal of any political realignment should be the restoration of genuine democratic values and accountable leadership in Nigeria. The briefing, attended by several prominent opposition leaders, underscored ongoing consultations and hinted at potential alliances as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.