By Sunday Apah
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 elections, has officially stepped down from his position within the opposition party.
His resignation comes as he prepares for the 2027 elections and acknowledges the formation of a new coalition party known as the Alliance Democratic Congress.
The announcement was made through a letter dated Monday, July 14, 2025, which was addressed to the chairman of the PDP Jada 1 ward in Jada Local Government Area, Adamawa State.
A copy of the letter was posted on social media by Abdul Rasheeth, the Special Assistant on Media to the former Vice President, on Wednesday.
In the letter, Atiku stated, “I am writing to formally announce my resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately.”
He continued, “I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunities provided to me by the party.”
Atiku reflected on his experience, noting, “Serving two full terms as Vice President of Nigeria and running for President on two occasions has marked significant moments in my life.”
As one of the founding members of the party, he shared his feelings of sadness over this decision.
The former vice president indicated that ongoing issues within the PDP have become insurmountable, hindering their chances in the upcoming elections.
“At this time, I find it essential to part ways due to the direction the party has taken, which I believe strays from the core principles we established. It is with great regret that I submit my resignation, recognizing the profound differences that have developed.”
“I wish the party and its leadership all the best in the future. I thank you once more for the support and opportunities,” he added.
Previously, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, had dismissed speculation regarding his departure.
Ibe emphasized that the former Vice President remains dedicated to the party’s ideals.
He labeled the rumors about Atiku’s resignation as unfounded fabrications stemming from politically motivated agendas.
Various online news sources unrelated to The PUNCH reported that Atiku had left the PDP to pursue another party in his quest for the 2027 presidential race.
In response, Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to remaining a loyal member of the PDP.
The statement read, “We would not typically respond to unverified claims on social media, particularly from anonymous sources, but due to heightened concerns from the public and credible members of the media, we feel it necessary to clarify:
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and current Presidential Candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has not—let us reiterate, has not—resigned from the PDP. He continues to be a committed, genuine, and loyal member of the party.”
The aide denounced the rumors as not just false but as a deliberate political smear campaign designed to mislead the public and create discord among those who look to Atiku Abubakar for leadership and guidance.
