The Inside Story: 24 Hours After Buhari’s Burial, Atiku Abubakar Dumps PDP to Consolidate Northern Support Ahead of 2027

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially ended his long-standing relationship with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), signaling a dramatic turn in Nigeria’s political landscape. This decision, which has already stirred wide-ranging reactions, was disclosed through a resignation letter addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Jada Ward 1, located in Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

Dated July 14 and obtained by Daily Trust on Thursday, the letter marks a decisive chapter in Atiku’s political journey, ending a decades-long affiliation with the party he helped establish. One of Atiku’s media aides has confirmed the authenticity of the letter, putting to rest speculation that surrounded earlier reports of his dissatisfaction with the party’s direction.

The contents of the letter paint a portrait of a political figure disillusioned by what he perceives as the erosion of values and vision that once defined the PDP. Expressing both sadness and resolve, Atiku stated, “I am writing to formally resign my membership from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with immediate effect.”

He continued by acknowledging the major role the party had played in shaping his political path. “I would like to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude for the opportunities I have been given by the party. Serving two full terms as Vice President of Nigeria and being a presidential candidate twice has been one of the most significant chapters of my life,” Atiku wrote.

Long viewed as one of the party's most influential founding fathers, Atiku explained that his decision was not taken lightly. According to him, the PDP has veered far from the foundational ideals that attracted him to the movement in the first place. “However, I find it necessary to part ways due to the current trajectory the party has taken, which I believe diverges from the foundational principles we stood for. It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognising the irreconcilable differences that have emerged,” he noted.

Atiku concluded the letter on a courteous note, offering best wishes to the PDP and its leadership in their future endeavors.

This resignation comes amid growing speculation over Atiku’s future political plans, especially considering his recent engagements with opposition forces. Reports suggest he has been working behind the scenes to form a broader coalition capable of taking on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 general elections.

A key development supporting this narrative is the recent alignment with the Action Democratic Congress (ADC), which has been identified as the emerging platform of choice for opposition groups. Atiku has reportedly been at the forefront of this alliance, aiming to establish a formidable force to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC's continuing dominance.

Political observers believe this move may reflect a strategic repositioning rather than a retreat from the political arena. Atiku, whose political career spans decades and includes several presidential campaigns, appears to be re-evaluating not only his platform but also the alliances he considers worth pursuing.

Throughout his time in PDP, Atiku remained one of the party's most vocal and visible figures. His multiple attempts at clinching Nigeria’s highest office, while unsuccessful, cemented his reputation as a key stakeholder in national politics. The implications of his departure are expected to ripple through the PDP's ranks, possibly accelerating internal debates about leadership, reform, and future strategy.

Across social and political circles, reactions have been mixed. While some PDP loyalists lament the loss of a foundational figure, others suggest that Atiku’s departure might clear the way for internal restructuring and a new generation of leadership.

Despite leaving the PDP, Atiku has given no clear indication of retiring from politics altogether. His recent activities suggest he remains very much engaged in the political process, perhaps even more determined to influence Nigeria’s political future.

As the country looks ahead to the 2027 general elections, all eyes will be on the new moves Atiku is poised to make, the alliances he forges, and whether his departure from the PDP signals the beginning of a powerful new political force or the final act of a seasoned political veteran.