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

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), pointing to the party’s shift away from its core principles as the reason for his decision.

Atiku’s resignation, which was submitted on July 14, 2025, was addressed to the PDP Chairman of his Ward in Jada Local Government Area, Adamawa State. In his letter, Atiku emphasized that the party’s current direction no longer reflects the ideals on which it was founded.

While the resignation marks a significant move in Nigerian politics, Atiku, who remains a key player in the opposition coalition, expressed gratitude for his long-standing association with the PDP. He highlighted his tenure as Vice President and his two presidential bids as key milestones in his political career.

In his letter, Atiku wrote: “I regret to announce that I am resigning from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) effective immediately. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities the party has afforded me, including serving two terms as Vice President and as a presidential candidate. These experiences have been among the most important in my life.

“However, after much reflection, it has become clear that the PDP’s current path no longer aligns with the principles we stood for at the party’s inception. This is a painful decision, but it is one I believe is necessary given the irreconcilable differences that have emerged.

“I wish the party and its leadership well in the future. As a founding member of the PDP, this decision is particularly hard for me, but I believe it is the right course of action.”