Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed rumours that he is planning to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a statement released by his media office on Saturday, Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to the party and called for a united opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We have observed that some news platforms are spreading false reports that Atiku Abubakar is leaving the PDP,” the statement said.
It added, “We wish to clarify that such claims are completely untrue and lack any basis.”
“Atiku has consistently called for a strong coalition of opposition parties to challenge the incompetent and painful leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.”
“He is advocating for a broad alliance that includes all opposition parties, including the PDP.”
“It is therefore incorrect to claim that Atiku is leaving the PDP. Such rumours contradict his goal of forming a united opposition to rescue Nigeria.”
“We want to make it clear that Atiku remains a dedicated member of the PDP, which is the main opposition party.”
“Any reports suggesting otherwise are meant to mislead Nigerians about the scale of the coalition being built to challenge the APC.”
There were speculations about Atiku’s defection amid reports of his growing political ties with former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai. Some sources suggested that both politicians and their allies might be exploring new political strategies due to challenges within their respective parties.
El-Rufai, who has recently clashed with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, has publicly expressed frustration with the APC. He has hinted that if the party strays too far from its founding principles, he might leave—but made it clear he would not join the PDP.
This has fueled rumours that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) could become a new political platform for Atiku and El-Rufai, especially as the PDP struggles with internal leadership disputes.
