The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has played down the resignation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing his exit as insignificant and politically self-serving.
Atiku, a long-time stalwart of the PDP, announced his departure earlier this week, citing the party’s deviation from its founding principles. He has since aligned with the emerging opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aiming to form a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to the development, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, accused Atiku of contributing to the internal turmoil that has plagued the party in recent years.
“This is not the first time he’s leaving. The party cannot revolve around one man,” Abdullahi stated. He added that Atiku’s repeated exits and returns show a pattern of using the PDP as a political vehicle only when convenient.
“One of the problems with Nigerian politics is the notion that the PDP exists for Atiku Abubakar, who only turns to it when it suits him,” he said.
Abdullahi further questioned Atiku’s commitment to democratic ideals, suggesting that his recent actions raise concerns about his leadership values and political consistency.
“You’ll find out that some of those who benefited the most from this party are the same ones now working against it,” he added.
Atiku’s departure marks a significant realignment in Nigeria’s opposition politics as the race toward 2027 begins to intensify.
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