A support group, the Nigerian Youths for Atiku (NYFA), has said the deliberate attempt by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, to smear the reputation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, only reveals the desperation of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to conceal its failings.

In a statement made available to MyNigeria, the group's Assistant Vice President, Omolara Williams, said the APC should understand that Atiku’s concerns regarding Nigeria’s democracy are rooted in his deep commitment to the nation’s progress.

Williams said the speech delivered by Atiku at the recent national conference was a call to action, urging all stakeholders to prioritize transparency and fairness in the democratic process.

"This is not alarmist rhetoric but a legitimate concern, especially given the mounting evidence of executive interference and judicial complicity in recent electoral disputes," he said.

Williams said contrary to the APC’s attempts to rewrite history, "Nigerians vividly remember the chaos surrounding the 2023 elections—an election marred by irregularities, voter suppression, and logistical inefficiencies.

"The claim that democracy is 'stronger' under the APC is not only untrue but an insult to millions of Nigerians who feel betrayed by a system that has failed to reflect their will."

Regarding Onanuga’s attempt to paint Atiku as a “prolific electoral litigator,” Williams said, "It is critical to emphasize that seeking redress through the courts is a fundamental right in any democracy.

"That Atiku has consistently turned to the judiciary reflects his respect for the rule of law, even when the outcomes have been questionable.

"The judiciary's role is to uphold justice, and its involvement in electoral disputes is not the problem—compromise and undue influence are.

"On the laughable allegation that Atiku's political actions are to blame for the PDP’s challenges, Mr. Onanuga conveniently ignores the APC’s role in fostering instability across opposition parties through coercion, inducements, and divisive tactics.

"Atiku's assertion that some opposition figures have been compromised is not unfounded—it reflects a growing consensus among Nigerians that the APC thrives on manipulation rather than merit.

"The APC’s penchant for deflecting criticism is evident in their baseless assertion that Atiku's era as Vice President was responsible for electoral malpractices.

"If the APC were truly concerned about democratic integrity, it would focus on addressing the ongoing issues under its leadership, such as rising insecurity, economic hardship, and dwindling public trust.

"Atiku Abubakar remains a statesman whose focus is on strengthening democracy and addressing Nigeria’s challenges—not on petty name-calling or divisive politics."

He said instead of launching personal attacks, Onanuga and the APC should concentrate on governance and creating policies that genuinely improve the lives of Nigerians.

"It is high time the APC recognizes that Nigerians deserve better than propaganda.

"They deserve leaders who prioritize progress over politics, accountability over arrogance, and unity over division," he concluded.