Arewa Voters Forum Exits PDP, Pledges Full Support for Atiku Abubakar

Major Political Realignment in Northern Nigeria

In a dramatic political development that could reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape, the influential Arewa Voters Forum/Atiku Voters Forum (AVF) has officially withdrawn from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This strategic move comes as political activities intensify ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections.

Unanimous Decision Following Extensive Consultations

The decision was finalized during a high-stakes national stakeholders’ meeting held on July 19, 2025, presided over by Comrade Idris Ibrahim U/Gini, the Forum’s National Team Leader. According to an official statement released the following day, this move resulted from comprehensive consultations across all levels of the organization.

“Our 44 local government team leaders and their ward representatives nationwide reached a unanimous agreement,” the statement revealed, highlighting the grassroots nature of this political realignment.

Undivided Loyalty to Atiku Abubakar

The Forum made clear that their resignation from PDP stems from their unshakable commitment to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the party’s presidential flagbearer in the 2023 elections. “Our allegiance remains firmly with His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar,” the statement emphasized.

Praising Atiku’s leadership qualities, the Forum added: “His vision and unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s progress continue to inspire our movement. Wherever he chooses to pursue his presidential ambition, our entire structure across 44 local governments will follow without hesitation.”

Grassroots Restructuring Underway

Political analysts note that the resignation process has already begun at the grassroots level, signaling a significant shift in northern Nigeria’s political support base. The Forum, known for its robust mobilization capabilities, appears poised to transfer its considerable voter base to whatever platform Atiku adopts.

“As a structured grassroots movement, we stand ready to mobilize millions of Nigerians behind His Excellency’s presidential vision—regardless of the political vehicle,” the statement concluded, hinting at possible future party defections.

Implications for 2027 Presidential Race

This development adds fuel to growing speculation about Atiku Abubakar’s next political move as Nigeria’s political class begins positioning for the 2027 elections. The mass resignation of a key support group from PDP raises questions about potential cracks in the opposition party’s northern stronghold.

Political observers suggest this move could be the first domino in a series of realignments as Nigeria’s political heavyweights jostle for position ahead of the next electoral cycle. The AVF’s decisive action demonstrates the enduring influence of Atiku Abubakar in northern politics and sets the stage for potentially dramatic political developments in coming months.

Credit: Original reporting by Arewa Agenda