Why Atiku Abubakar Should Not Quit the PDP Amid Political Turmoil
Rumors of Defection and Political Realignments
Speculations are rife that former Vice President and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, may be considering leaving the party. These rumors gained traction after his former running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and hinted that Atiku might follow suit.
Okowa stated in a recent interview: “I also know that he (Atiku) is already heading out of the PDP from the communications he passed on to me, and that Nigerians know already.” However, Atiku’s media team has denied these claims, asserting that he remains committed to the PDP.
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Implications of Atiku’s Potential Exit
Atiku’s departure would deal a significant blow to the already weakened PDP, further destabilizing Nigeria’s opposition landscape. Given his stature as a key figure in the party, his exit could trigger a mass exodus, mirroring the 2015 defections that crippled the PDP under Goodluck Jonathan.
Political analysts note that Atiku has previously switched parties—most notably in 2007 when he allied with Bola Tinubu’s Action Congress (AC) after falling out with then-President Olusegun Obasanjo. However, this time, his exit could have far-reaching consequences for the PDP’s survival.
Coalition Talks and Opposition Strategy
Recent political maneuvers suggest that opposition leaders, including Atiku and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, are exploring coalition options to challenge the ruling APC in 2027. A visit by a coalition of opposition figures to former President Muhammadu Buhari in April fueled speculation of a grand alliance.
El-Rufai, now with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has been vocal about the need for opposition unity. A combined front, rather than fragmented efforts, could pose a stronger challenge to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Atiku’s Legacy and PDP’s Future
Atiku remains one of the most influential politicians in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. As Vice President under Obasanjo, he played a pivotal role in economic reforms, including privatization and liberalization policies. His leadership could be crucial in revitalizing the PDP.
However, internal discord within the PDP—evidenced by governors rejecting alliance talks with Atiku—highlights the party’s leadership vacuum. Many believe Atiku should step up to unify the party rather than abandon it.
The Need for Strong Opposition in Nigeria
With Nigeria facing severe economic challenges—rising poverty, inflation, and unaffordable living costs—a robust opposition is essential to hold the government accountable. The PDP, despite its flaws, once delivered economic prosperity, and Nigerians deserve viable alternatives.
Atiku’s departure could further weaken opposition forces, leaving the APC unchallenged. Instead of quitting, political watchers urge him to lead efforts in rebuilding the PDP and offering Nigerians a credible alternative ahead of 2027.
Full credit to the original publisher: The Guardian