The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his decision to address President Bola Tinubu by his first name, “Bola,” accusing him of allowing political rivalry to influence his public conduct.
Naija News reports that the council described Atiku’s action as disrespectful to the Office of the President, stressing that political disagreements should not undermine respect for constituted authority.
The statement, signed by Dele Alake, spokesperson and head of the council’s communications team, said the APC had directed its leaders, spokespersons, members and support groups to continue according Atiku the respect due to a former Vice President and presidential candidate, irrespective of his approach towards Tinubu.
The council said Atiku should demonstrate a higher standard of decorum because of his previous position and his ambition to lead the country.
Parts of the statement read: “While a higher standard of decorum, decency and deference to constituted authorities is expected from a former Vice President of Nigeria and an aspirant to the highest office in the country, we are concerned that the ADC Presidential candidate has not lived up to those expectations by his unbecoming decision to address the President of Nigeria on a first-name basis as ‘Bola.’
“As a party grounded in progressive ideals and African traditional values of respect, our campaign council will not follow Alhaji Atiku’s path.”
The controversy highlights the growing political tension between the APC and opposition figures as political alignments and rivalries continue to shape public discourse ahead of the 2027 general election.
However, the council’s position also raises a broader question about political culture: whether addressing a president by his first name should be interpreted as disrespect or simply as a personal style of political communication.
While the APC has called for greater deference to the presidency, the statement reflects the ruling party’s interpretation of the exchange rather than an established breach of any formal protocol.
