M.I Abaga Regrets Supporting APC in 2015 Amid Growing Corruption Concerns

Lagos, Nigeria 

Renowned Nigerian rapper and lyricist, Jude Abaga—popularly known as M.I Abaga—has openly expressed regret for supporting the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2015 general elections. His candid reflection, aired on the Menism Podcast and amplified by the social media platform @ParallelFacts on X (formerly Twitter), has triggered wide-ranging conversations across Nigeria’s digital and political space.

From Hope to Disillusionment

M.I Abaga explained that his support for the APC in 2015 was driven by deep frustration with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) under then-President Goodluck Jonathan, which he described as “very corrupt.” At the time, he viewed the APC as a vehicle for democratic reform and anti-corruption.

“Yes, I supported APC because at that time, I felt the PDP government was very corrupt. I was part of those who lifted my voice to say, ‘Let’s bring in democracy,’” M.I stated.

However, his stance has since shifted dramatically. The turning point, he noted, came when he was publicly criticized for tweeting about herdsmen attacks in Benue State, with many Nigerians reminding him of his past political endorsement.

“A lot of people said, ‘But M.I, you supported the APC.’ I realized that as a human, you can be wrong—even when you think you're doing the right thing,” he admitted. “APC, unfortunately, isn’t the APC of my dreams.”

His admission echoes the findings of a 2021 Afrobarometer survey, which revealed that 68% of Nigerians believe corruption has worsened under the APC—undermining the very narrative that brought the party to power.

Career and Credibility in a Shifting Landscape

M.I Abaga rose to prominence during the PDP-led government with iconic tracks like “Crowd Mentality” and the award-winning album Talk About It. His early acclaim stood in contrast to the decline in public trust that has shadowed his later political expressions.

As frustrations with the APC mounted—highlighted by key defections such as Nuhu Ribadu's return to PDP—M.I's voice, once seen as a cultural compass, was met with skepticism. A 2023 World Bank report noted worsening governance conditions in Nigeria, placing further strain on the credibility of public figures tied to the APC's early promises.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

The response to M.I's remarks has been deeply divided. On X, user @Obidientdaniel condemned 2015 APC supporters, calling them “dumb” for enabling what he described as Nigeria’s steady decline. Others, like @DOgbijo, labeled M.I’s support as “naïve” and “short-sighted.”
In contrast, @Monye1981Emeka struck a more introspective tone, writing, “I was too fooled. Falling for them in 2019, 2023, and 2025 literally means you are a FOOL.”

These comments reflect a broader public sentiment of betrayal—shared by many Nigerians who, like M.I, once believed the APC offered a fresh start.

Shifting from Politics to Purpose

Now focused on using his platform to inspire positive change, M.I Abaga says his mission is no longer tied to political endorsements but to nation-building, advocacy, and youth empowerment.

“My focus now is on promoting progress,” he stated. “I want to use my voice to hold leaders accountable and speak for the people.”

Looking Ahead

The 2015 elections were seen as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, with the APC campaigning on a promise of change. A decade later, with unfulfilled pledges, worsening insecurity, and economic strain, voices like M.I’s are sparking a broader reckoning. As the nation heads into another election cycle, the influence of cultural figures on political discourse may reshape how future generations engage with leadership and policy.

Stay with News House for more updates on Nigeria’s evolving political and cultural landscape. Follow us on all platforms [@news_house_ng].