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

Story written by okafor joseph (July 16, 2025):
Abuja, Nigeria — July 16, 2025 – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing the party’s current direction as a major departure from the principles on which it was founded.

Atiku, a long-time member and two-time presidential candidate under the PDP, announced his resignation in a letter dated July 14, 2025, addressed to the PDP Chairman of his Ward in Jada Local Government Area, Adamawa State.

In the letter, Atiku described his decision as “heartbreaking,” but necessary, given what he called irreconcilable differences between himself and the current trajectory of the party.

“I am writing to formally resign my membership from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) with immediate effect,” the letter read.

Atiku expressed deep appreciation for the opportunities he received while in the party, noting that serving two terms as Nigeria’s Vice President and being nominated twice as the PDP presidential candidate were major highlights of his political career.

“However, I find it necessary to part ways due to the current trajectory the Party has taken, which I believe diverges from the foundational principles we stood for,” he stated.

Now aligned with the opposition coalition, Atiku’s exit marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. His departure is expected to trigger political realignments within the PDP and among key opposition blocs.

As one of the PDP’s founding members, Atiku acknowledged the emotional weight of the decision but emphasized the need for values-driven leadership moving forward.

Observers say his resignation could influence the strategy of opposition parties and reshape the dynamics of national politics in the coming months.

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