…Faces legal warning over use of national symbols
In a significant political shift, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and declared his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), setting the stage for major realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abubakar, a founding PDP member and its presidential candidate in 2019 and 2023, cited irreconcilable differences with the party’s current direction in a resignation letter dated July 14. “The current trajectory of the party diverges from the foundational principles we stood for,” he wrote, while expressing gratitude for the platform that allowed him to serve as Nigeria’s Vice President from 1999 to 2007.
His move, coming shortly after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, adds momentum to an emerging opposition coalition under the ADC, which now includes other prominent figures like Peter Obi. The coalition aims to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming elections.
However, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dismissed concerns that Atiku’s exit could destabilize the PDP. “The PDP remains strong and intact,” he asserted, referencing Atiku’s past defeat and internal divisions over his 2023 candidacy. Makinde, a member of the rebellious G-5 Governors, reiterated his criticism of Atiku’s campaign choices, especially his decision not to pick Nyesom Wike as a running mate.
Speculation about Makinde’s own ambitions is growing, with presidential posters recently spotted in parts of Kano.
Meanwhile, Atiku is also facing legal heat from the federal government. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has accused the former vice president of illegally using the national Coat of Arms in official-looking communications – despite having left office nearly two decades ago.
Keyamo described the act as a violation of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act and warned that it could be interpreted as impersonation. “It is illegal, misleading, and disrespectful to the laws of the land,” Keyamo said, calling on Atiku to immediately desist from such usage or face legal consequences.
In a scathing aside, Keyamo also criticized the timing of Atiku’s PDP exit, calling it “politically self-serving” and “insensitive”, given the national mourning period following Buhari’s death. “Resigning during a time of grief sends the wrong message to Nigerians,” he said.
