Atiku’s Exit from PDP Not a Concern—Party Spokesman

Abuja, Nigeria — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has downplayed the resignation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing his departure as inconsequential to the party’s future and internal cohesion.

In a statement granted exclusively to The PUNCH on Thursday, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ibrahim Abdullahi, characterized Atiku’s exit as “good riddance,” citing the former presidential candidate’s repeated defections and alleged failure to unify the party during critical moments.

Reflecting on the party’s 2023 electoral performance, Abdullahi stressed that Atiku’s lack of strategic coordination played a major role in PDP’s defeat, noting that several high-profile figures, including Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and five key governors, distanced themselves from his campaign.

“He could have galvanized support and held the party together,” Abdullahi remarked. “Instead, his inaction led to fragmentation and weakened the PDP’s chances in the 2023 elections.”

Atiku, who formally announced his resignation in a letter dated July 14, 2025, cited a departure from the party’s founding principles as his reason for leaving. The letter, addressed to his ward chairman in Adamawa State, reflected on his long history with the PDP and acknowledged irreconcilable differences.

Despite Atiku’s historical role in the PDP, including two presidential bids and his service as Vice President, party officials have reiterated that the PDP is not built around individuals. Abdullahi recalled Atiku’s pattern of defections over the years and suggested this latest exit is simply a continuation of that trend.

“This marks at least the fourth time he has left the PDP,” Abdullahi noted. “And yet the party has remained. We are an institution—not a platform for individual ambitions.”

As speculation mounts regarding Atiku’s potential alliance with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, the PDP maintained that it remains unshaken. Abdullahi asserted that the party is focused on internal reforms and transparent processes leading up to the 2027 elections.

“If he wants to pursue another presidential ambition elsewhere, we wish him well,” he concluded. “But the PDP will endure. We’ve been here for 27 years—and we’re not losing any sleep.”

The statement concluded with a firm reassurance from the PDP that it remains Nigeria’s most enduring political institution, committed to inclusive leadership and national stability.

By Adeola Olaniya | July 17, 2025