The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has said its spokespersons and members will continue to accord former Vice President Atiku Abubakar the respect due to his status, despite accusing him of disrespecting President Bola Tinubu.
The council, however, criticised Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), for referring to Tinubu by his first name, “Bola”, describing the action as unbecoming of a former vice president and an aspirant to the nation’s highest office.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 12, 2026, the council’s spokesperson, Dele Alake, said Atiku’s conduct fell short of the standards of decorum and statesmanship expected of someone who had occupied the office of vice president.
Alake alleged that political animosity and ambition had affected Atiku’s public conduct since his defeat in the last presidential election.
He said the former vice president’s actions should not serve as an example for younger politicians, adding that political differences should not undermine respect for constituted authority.
Despite its criticism of Atiku, the APC campaign council urged party leaders, spokespersons, members and support groups to accord him the courtesies and regard due to a former vice president and presidential candidate.
“As a party grounded in progressive ideals and African traditional values of respect, our campaign council will not follow Alhaji Atiku’s path,” Alake said.
He added that the APC campaign would focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than personal attacks or disputes over political etiquette.
According to him, the campaign will highlight the party’s programmes, Tinubu’s achievements in office and the administration’s efforts to move the country from economic reforms to prosperity.
Tinubu is seeking a second term in office in the next presidential election.
