The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, says former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s resignation from the party is neither unexpected nor alarming — describing it as yet another chapter in a long-standing pattern of political shuffling.
Speaking to journalists in Bauchi on Friday, Damagum downplayed Atiku’s July 14 announcement, in which the former presidential candidate cited “irreconcilable differences” and a deviation from the party’s founding ideals as reasons for his exit.
“This is not the first time. We are expecting him back,” Damagum said, signalling confidence that Atiku’s defection is likely temporary and politically strategic, rather than a final break from the party.
Abubakar’s resignation letter has stirred conversations across Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly within opposition circles, where he is reportedly aligning with a new coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, Damagum’s comments suggest the PDP remains unfazed by the move.
“We’ve seen this before. Atiku’s political history is marked by comings and goings. It’s not a cause for panic,” he said.
A History of Departures
Atiku Abubakar, once a foundational pillar of the PDP, has a long and winding record of defections. His current departure marks the fourth time he’s left the party since 1999 — each move often timed with major electoral seasons.
His first defection came in 2006 when he left the PDP for the Action Congress (AC), seeking the 2007 presidential ticket. After his loss, he returned to the PDP in 2009, only to exit again in 2014 for the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC). He returned to the PDP in 2017, eventually becoming its presidential flagbearer in both the 2019 and 2023 elections — both of which he lost.
Political observers say his latest exit mirrors previous cycles, suggesting that he remains a free agent in search of a viable platform for another presidential bid.
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What’s Next for Atiku?
While he hasn’t officially declared his new party, Atiku is believed to be at the centre of a realignment of opposition forces, many of whom have embraced the ADC as a neutral platform for coalition-building ahead of the next elections.
His departure could further deepen internal cracks in the PDP, already grappling with leadership disputes and dwindling influence following consecutive national losses.
Still, Damagum insists the party is moving forward.
“The PDP is bigger than any one individual. We will rebuild, we will reform, and we will compete,” he said.
As political chess moves continue ahead of 2027, Atiku’s latest move is being watched closely, not just for where he lands — but whether, as history suggests, he eventually circles back.