Atiku’s Exit From PDP and Shift to ADC: Political Shock or Familiar Script?
Atiku’s Resignation from PDP: A Familiar Departure
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has once again stirred Nigeria’s political waters with his exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his transition to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), triggering a flurry of reactions across party lines. In a letter dated July 14, 2025, addressed to his PDP ward chairman in Jada 1, Adamawa State, Atiku cited his discontent with the party’s trajectory as the reason for his departure.
This isn’t the first time Atiku has dumped the PDP. Since 1999, he has made multiple party switches. In 2006, he moved to the now-defunct Action Congress. In 2014, he defected again—this time to the All Progressives Congress (APC)—before returning to the PDP, under which he ran for president in 2019 and 2023. Now, with his sights set once more on Nigeria’s top seat, Atiku has pitched his tent with the ADC.
A Grand Coalition to Challenge Tinubu
Atiku’s defection comes amid rising collaboration among Nigeria’s political opposition. On July 1, 2025, Atiku, alongside former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-APC chieftain Rotimi Amaechi, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and other notable figures, officially adopted the ADC as the platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
As part of the new coalition’s structure, former Senate President David Mark has been named interim National Chairman, while ex-Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola will serve as interim National Secretary. This political realignment seeks to unify the fragmented opposition under a common banner against the APC.
Atiku’s Resignation Letter: A Sentimental Farewell
In his resignation letter, which YEPS obtained, Atiku reflected on his journey within the PDP, a party he helped establish.
“I am writing to formally resign my membership from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) with immediate effect. Serving two full terms as Vice President of Nigeria and twice as the party’s presidential candidate has been one of the most significant chapters of my life,” Atiku wrote.
“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. It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognising the irreconcilable differences that have emerged.”
His aide, Paul Ibe, confirmed the resignation but did not offer further details. “Yes, it is true he has left the PDP,” Ibe told YEPS. When asked if Atiku was headed to the ADC, he simply said, “That will be communicated later.”
Reactions from PDP: Indifference and Criticism
The PDP’s response to Atiku’s exit was largely indifferent, with party officials downplaying its impact. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, speaking at a coronation event in Akure, said Atiku’s exit posed no threat.
“I don’t think that will make any dent on PDP as a party. PDP is an institution and people are free to come and go,” he stated.
Veteran PDP leader Chief Bode George was more critical. He called Atiku’s move a result of insatiable ambition. “This ambition to be President has clearly overtaken his inner strength,” he said.
George added, “He knows zoning is part of our core. He should realise the North has had its turn. He should prepare for retirement, not another run at the presidency. By 2027, he’ll be 81.”
He continued, “He was once deceived by Bola Tinubu and returned to the PDP. Now he’s falling into the same trap again. Atiku needs deep introspection.”
Adamawa PDP Celebrates His Departure
In Atiku’s home state, Adamawa, PDP officials and supporters reacted with surprising celebration. YEPS gathered reactions in Yola where the party’s state chairman, Tahir Shehu, said Atiku’s departure was no setback.
“Adamawa is PDP territory. Atiku benefited greatly from this party. His leaving will not affect us,” Shehu stated.
According to him, the PDP only lost Adamawa once—in 2015—due to the imposition of candidates by Abuja elites. “We’ve learned our lessons, and we’re stronger now than ever,” he affirmed.
Another PDP chieftain, Luka Tumba, went as far as calling Atiku’s resignation divine intervention. “He’s been a hindrance, not a help. Even roads to his hometown were built by Buhari, not him. We must give thanks for this development,” he said.
APC’s Reaction: Mockery and Dismissal
The APC responded to Atiku’s defection with a mixture of mockery and firm dismissal. National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka labelled him “Nigeria’s most consistent political wanderer.”
“Yet again, Atiku uses his revolving door out of the PDP in desperate pursuit of the presidency. He lacks party loyalty, and his obsession with power is unmatched,” Morka posted on X.
APC Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim echoed this sentiment, telling YEPS that Atiku lacked both political ideology and consistency. “He’s not a politician; he’s a serial contestant. He believes power is his birthright and hops platforms looking for easy victory. And he will still lose,” he stated.
Keyamo Slams Atiku’s Timing and Conduct
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, sharply criticized Atiku’s timing. In a statement, he accused the former Vice President of attempting to steal national attention from the mourning of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“This defection is ill-timed and self-serving. The nation is in mourning. This move reflects insensitivity and desperation,” Keyamo said.
He also accused Atiku of violating the law by using the Nigerian Coat of Arms in his resignation letter. “Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act forbids this. He’s impersonating authority and must stop,” he warned.
A Coalition with Momentum: ADC Reacts
The ADC, now the center of the opposition movement, welcomed Atiku’s formal entry. Spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi told YEPS, “We’re excited. Atiku has been part of this coalition behind the scenes. His public commitment gives us confidence. Others will follow.”
According to Abdullahi, the ADC aims to become a true alternative to the APC and PDP, riding on the discontent of Nigerians seeking genuine change.
Atiku’s Political Gamble: Risk or Strategy?
Political analysts say Atiku’s move is high-risk. With age no longer on his side, and a history of failed presidential bids, the stakes are enormous. Yet, supporters argue that his experience, network, and name recognition make him a strong contender—especially if the coalition holds.
The next step, analysts say, will be how Atiku officially launches his campaign under the ADC and whether the coalition can stay united long enough to build a national base.
2027 Elections: A Three-Way Battle Taking Shape
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, the political landscape is rapidly evolving into what could be a fierce three-way contest between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the emerging African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition.
The APC, currently in power, is expected to leverage the advantages of incumbency, state machinery, and its grip on key states, particularly in the North and Southwest. With President Bola Tinubu seeking re-election, the party will rely on its national structure and established political alliances to retain power.
Meanwhile, the PDP continues to maintain a stronghold in the South-South and Southeast regions. Despite recent defections and internal wrangling, the party remains a dominant force with deep-rooted networks and a loyal voter base that has kept it competitive in past elections.
However, the new variable in the equation is the ADC-led coalition, now buoyed by Atiku Abubakar’s defection and the alignment of other influential political figures such as Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Nasir El-Rufai. This bloc is positioning itself as a viable alternative to the status quo, especially among youth and disillusioned voters seeking change from the traditional two-party dominance.
The success of this coalition will hinge on its ability to stay united, articulate a compelling vision, and mobilize grassroots support across the country. If it succeeds, Nigeria’s 2027 elections could mark a historic turning point—transforming the contest into an unpredictable, high-stakes three-way race.
Nigeria Holds Its Breath as the Political Chessboard Resets
Atiku Abubakar’s recent defection from the PDP to the ADC may seem like déjà vu in Nigeria’s political narrative, but it arrives at a particularly significant moment in the country’s democratic evolution. With the 2027 elections looming, the stakes are high, and every political maneuver is under intense national scrutiny. Atiku, a seasoned political figure with multiple party switches and presidential bids behind him, has once again thrown his hat into the ring—this time under the banner of a new opposition coalition.
Nigerians are now watching closely to see how this bold move plays out. Will the newly formed coalition, composed of heavyweights from across political divides, maintain unity and build enough momentum to challenge the ruling APC? Or will internal rivalries and ideological differences tear it apart before the race even begins?
Atiku’s ambition remains unmistakable, but so too does the public’s skepticism. After years of shifting political affiliations, will voters see this as a final stand from a veteran statesman—or just another rerun in a long political saga?
As 2027 approaches, the road ahead is uncertain, but undeniably critical. One thing is clear: Nigeria’s political dynamics are shifting dramatically. The game is far from over, and every decision, alliance, and public sentiment will shape what could be a defining election in the country’s modern history.