Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally announced his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing deep-rooted internal crises and a lack of direction within the party. In a statement released Tuesday, Atiku expressed disappointment with the party’s inability to reform and reposition itself as a viable opposition force in Nigeria.
Atiku, a founding member of the PDP and its presidential candidate in 2019 and 2023, stated that his decision was not taken lightly. According to him, the party has “strayed far from its founding principles of inclusion, justice, and internal democracy.” He added that repeated efforts to address the issues from within were met with resistance and indifference from party leadership.
The former vice president also accused the PDP of sidelining key stakeholders and failing to provide a united front capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). While Atiku did not immediately declare his next political move, his statement hinted at a continued interest in active politics, saying he remains committed to the democratic future of Nigeria.
His resignation is expected to trigger a fresh wave of defections and possible realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. As one of the PDP’s most visible and influential figures, Atiku’s exit deals a major blow to the party’s national strength and raises new questions about its survival and relevance in the current political climate.
