Atiku Abubakar Resigns from PDP, Cites Departure from Party’s Core Principles

Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the last general elections, has officially resigned from the party.

In a letter obtained by Vanguard on Wednesday and confirmed by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku expressed his gratitude for the roles he played within the PDP over the years. He acknowledged the honor of serving as Nigeria’s Vice President for two terms and contesting for the presidency twice under the party’s banner.

“It is with deep emotion that I announce my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately,” the letter stated. “Being a founding member of the PDP, this decision is not an easy one. However, I believe the current direction of the party no longer aligns with the ideals upon which it was built.”

He further explained that irreconcilable differences within the party have made it difficult for him to continue as a member. “Despite my heartbreak, I must step away,” he wrote. “I wish the PDP and its leadership the very best moving forward, and I remain grateful for all the opportunities I was given.”

Atiku’s exit comes just weeks after reports emerged of his involvement in a new political coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The alliance includes other prominent figures such as Peter Obi of the Labour Party, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai. The coalition reportedly aims to challenge and unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.