Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep regret over his role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2014, arguing that the decision, though driven by the desire for change at the time, has not delivered the progress Nigerians hoped for.
Atiku, a founding figure of the opposition coalition that birthed the APC, said the party was created to rescue Nigeria from what was then perceived as poor governance, economic stagnation, and institutional decay. According to him, the goal was to offer Nigerians a credible alternative built on reform, accountability, and inclusive growth.
More than a decade later, the former vice president said he is disappointed that the promise of that coalition has not translated into better outcomes for citizens. He lamented that Nigeria’s challenges have deepened under the current administration, citing persistent economic hardship, rising insecurity, and weakening public confidence in governance.
Atiku noted that while the APC rode to power on a wave of popular discontent and reformist rhetoric, successive years in government have failed to address the structural problems confronting the country. Instead, he argued, living conditions for many Nigerians have deteriorated, with inflation eroding incomes, unemployment remaining stubbornly high, and insecurity spreading across several regions.
The former vice president also suggested that the ruling party had drifted from the ideals that brought its founders together. He said internal divisions, lack of internal democracy, and policy inconsistencies have undermined effective leadership and national cohesion.
Atiku’s remarks are widely seen as both a personal reflection and a political statement, coming at a time of heightened debate over Nigeria’s direction and leadership choices. As a former presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, his comments reinforce his long-standing criticism of the APC-led government and position him as a vocal advocate for political realignment and reform.
He maintained that Nigeria still has the capacity to recover, but stressed that meaningful progress would require courageous leadership, sound economic management, respect for democratic principles, and policies that place citizens’ welfare above partisan interests.
Atiku concluded that while he cannot undo the past, he believes it is important to speak honestly about the consequences of political decisions, urging Nigerians to reflect critically on the nation’s journey and the choices ahead.
