By John Umeh
In a stunning and unexpected political move, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ending a decades-long association with the party that once carried him to the pinnacle of national politics. The announcement, made via a personally signed statement released to the media, has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political establishment, triggering speculation about his next move and the future of the PDP.
Atiku, who has contested the presidency multiple times under different political platforms—but most recently under the PDP in 2019 and 2023—cited irreconcilable differences, lack of internal democracy, and strategic disagreements with the party’s leadership as key reasons for his resignation.
A Bitter Departure
In the statement, Atiku lamented what he described as the party’s deviation from its founding principles. “I can no longer, in good conscience, continue to associate with a political institution that has abandoned the ideals of fairness, justice, and inclusiveness. The PDP of today is not the PDP we once built,” he wrote.
While Atiku stopped short of announcing a new political affiliation, he hinted at “a broader national coalition” and a renewed commitment to “rescuing Nigeria from economic despair and political disillusionment.” The cryptic language has fueled speculation that the veteran politician may be working behind the scenes to build or join a new political alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
PDP in Turmoil
Atiku’s resignation comes at a time when the PDP is grappling with internal wrangling, leadership disputes, and a lack of clear direction following consecutive defeats in national elections. His exit is widely seen as a major blow to the party’s credibility and organizational strength, especially in the North-East, where he commands a loyal political base.
Reacting to the resignation, a senior PDP official who requested anonymity said, “This is a heavy loss. Whatever disagreements existed, we expected that party unity and reconciliation would prevail. Atiku’s departure leaves a gaping hole.”
What Next for Atiku?
With his resignation now official, political analysts believe Atiku is positioning himself for one final political shot, possibly as the head of a new “third force” or a coalition aiming to challenge both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the weakened PDP in 2027.
Dr. Nnenna Ibekwe, a political analyst and lecturer at the University of Abuja, noted, “Atiku is a master strategist. His moves are calculated. This is not retirement—it’s repositioning. He knows the PDP is fractured and may not survive another cycle. If he can unite disaffected elements from both major parties, he could rewrite the 2027 narrative.”
APC and Other Parties React
While the ruling APC has not issued an official statement, party insiders say Atiku’s exit from PDP could alter political alliances significantly, especially in states where the PDP has remained strong. Some members of smaller opposition parties, including the Labour Party (LP) and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), have also welcomed the development as an opportunity for broader coalition talks.
“2027 is already in play,” said Abdul Musa, a political correspondent in Kaduna. “Atiku’s resignation might be the spark that ignites a new political realignment in Nigeria.”
Citizens React with Mixed Feelings
On social media and across the streets, Nigerians have expressed a mix of shock, fatigue, and indifference. For some, Atiku’s exit marks the end of an era, while others question whether yet another realignment would make any tangible difference to the lives of everyday Nigerians.
“Same faces, same promises,” tweeted one user. “Atiku leaving PDP only reminds us how recycled our politics has become.”
Still, for many in Nigeria’s political class, Atiku’s resignation is far from the end—it is the beginning of a potentially seismic shift in the country’s political landscape. As the 2027 general elections draw nearer, all eyes are now on what the former Vice President will do next.
