‘Fintiri’s defection to APC, a big blow for Atiku’- Presidency

By Tolulope Oke

The Presidency has reacted to the defection of Adamawa State Governor Umaru Fintiri from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, shared his reaction via a tweet on Friday, describing Fintiri’s move as a big blow for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

In his tweet, Onanuga framed Fintiri’s move as a major boost for President Bola Tinubu’s party in Adamawa, noting that the defection, which included Fintiri’s cabinet, lawmakers, and key PDP officials, has turned the APC into a juggernaut in the state.

He stressed that with the presidential election less than a year away, the former Vice President now faces serious challenges in his home state. He added: “If a politician is not popular at home, he has no business selling his candidacy to outsiders. The time is nigh for Atiku to consider retiring from politics and going to his second home in Dubai.”

Onanuga highlighted that the governor’s defection, which included his cabinet, lawmakers, and key PDP officials, has turned the APC into a juggernaut in Adamawa State, strengthening the ruling party’s position ahead of the 2027 presidential election.