Atiku’s Political Exodus: Full List of His Party Crossovers Unveiled

Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially parted ways with the party, signaling a fresh political move ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a letter addressed to the PDP Chairman of Jada 1 Ward, Jada Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Atiku confirmed his resignation from the main opposition party.

Atiku’s latest political shift adds yet another chapter to his long history of defections across Nigeria’s political landscape. Below is a timeline of his cross-party movements:

1. PDP to Action Congress (AC) – 2006–2007
Following a rift with then-President Olusegun Obasanjo over the controversial third-term agenda, Atiku exited the PDP in 2006 and joined the newly established Action Congress (AC). He ran as the party’s presidential candidate in 2007 but lost to Umaru Musa Yar’Adua of the PDP.

2. AC back to PDP – 2009
Internal tensions and leadership disputes in the AC prompted Atiku’s return to the PDP in 2009. He again sought the party’s presidential ticket in 2011 but was defeated by then-incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

3. PDP to All Progressives Congress (APC) – 2014–2017
In early 2014, Atiku defected to the newly formed APC. He contested the party’s 2015 presidential primary but was beaten by Muhammadu Buhari.

4. APC back to PDP – 2017
Disillusioned with the APC’s governance, Atiku rejoined the PDP in December 2017. He emerged as the PDP presidential flagbearer in both 2019 and 2023 but was defeated in both elections by Buhari and Tinubu, respectively.

5. PDP to African Democratic Congress (ADC) – July 2025
On July 14, 2025, Atiku officially resigned from the PDP, citing irreconcilable differences and dissatisfaction with the party’s direction.
He has now joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aligning with figures like Peter Obi in what many believe is a strategic coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.