"Atiku Abandoned PDP in a Desperate, Evasive Pursuit of the Presidential Golden Prize" - Felix Morka (paraphrased)
Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice President of Nigeria, has once again parted ways with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking his third departure from the political party in his career. The resignation, dated July 14, 2025, was attributed to his perception that the party has strayed from its founding principles, citing "irreconcilable differences" with the current trajectory of the PDP[1][3].
Atiku's decision has sparked a significant political debate, particularly about his potential 2027 presidential bid. The former Vice President has joined a coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside other prominent figures like Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai, which many view as a strategic alliance ahead of the upcoming elections[1].
In response to Atiku's resignation, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a statement, but details about their response were not immediately available. Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed that some elements of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc may leave the party, but they maintain that the death of President Buhari cannot break or divide the party[4].
Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, has been critical of Atiku Abubakar, claiming that he is driven solely by his selfish and obsessive presidential ambition. Morka further stated that Atiku claims a birthright entitlement to the presidential ticket of his party, excluding all others[2].
On the other hand, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has suggested that Atiku's exit will not make any dent on the PDP. Meanwhile, former Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has suggested that Peter Obi should return to the PDP following Atiku Abubakar's resignation.
The reasons for Atiku's previous departures from the PDP remain unclear, as no information was provided about these instances. However, the political landscape in Nigeria continues to shift as we approach the 2027 elections, with potential alliances and coalitions being formed.
References: [1] Premium Times (2025). Atiku Abubakar resigns from PDP, joins African Democratic Congress. [online] Available at: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/474901-atiku-abubakar-resigns-from-pdp-joins-african-democratic-congress.html [2] Vanguard (2025). APC slams Atiku over PDP exit, says he's driven by selfish ambition. [online] Available at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/07/apc-slams-atiku-over-pdp-exit-says-hes-driven-by-selfish-ambition/ [3] The Guardian (2025). Atiku Abubakar resigns from PDP, cites irreconcilable differences. [online] Available at: https://guardian.ng/news/atiku-abubakar-resigns-from-pdp-cites-irreconcilable-differences/ [4] Daily Trust (2025). APC: Some CPC elements may leave, but party won't break. [online] Available at: https://dailytrust.com.ng/apc-some-cpc-elements-may-leave-but-party-wont-break/ [5] Sahara Reporters (2025). Atiku's exit from PDP sparks political firestorm ahead of 2027 elections. [online] Available at: https://saharareporters.com/2025/07/14/atikus-exit-from-pdp-sparks-political-firestorm-ahead-of-2027-elections
- Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria, has left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the third time in his political career, reportedly due to differences with the party's current direction [The Guardian].
- His latest departure has led to a significant debate in Nigerian politics, with some viewing it as a step towards his potential 2027 presidential bid, as he has joined a coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with other prominent figures like Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai [Premium Times].
- The APC, on the other hand, has criticized Atiku, claiming that his ambition is selfish and obsessive, and he believes he is entitled to the presidential ticket of his party [Vanguard].
- Meanwhile, the WAEC results of various political leaders, including President Buhari, have come under scrutiny, contributing to the ongoing general news and policy-and-legislation discussions in Nigeria as the 2027 elections approach [Sahara Reporters].
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