The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his decision to address President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by his first name, describing the action as disrespectful to the office of the President.
The Council, in a press statement issued on Monday, 12 October, 2026, also urged its leaders, spokespersons, members and support groups to continue according Atiku the respect and courtesies befitting his status as a former vice president and presidential candidate, despite the controversy surrounding his conduct.
The statement, signed by the Council’s spokesperson, Dele Alake, said Atiku’s conduct fell short of the standards of decorum and statesmanship expected of a former occupant of the nation’s second-highest political office and an aspirant to the presidency.
The APC campaign council expressed concern over what it described as Atiku’s disregard for the office of the President, particularly his use of the name “Bola” in referring to Tinubu.
According to the statement, the former vice president’s conduct raises concerns about political behaviour and the example political leaders set for younger generations.
The Council further alleged that Atiku had allowed political animosity and ambition to influence his public conduct and utterances following his loss in the last presidential election.
It, however, maintained that the APC would not reciprocate what it considered disrespectful behaviour, insisting that its members would continue to treat Atiku with the courtesies due to his position as 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,” the statement said.
The APC Campaign Council also declared that its campaign would focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than personal exchanges or controversies involving political opponents.
It said the party would highlight its programmes, the Tinubu administration’s record in office and its plans to move the country from economic reforms to prosperity as the President seeks a second-term mandate.
The Council urged political actors to maintain decorum in public discourse, while reiterating its commitment to issue-based campaigning ahead of the 2027 general elections
