Atiku yet to formally join ADC after PDP exit, awaits return from overseas trip
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has not yet officially completed his transition to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last week, a close associate has confirmed.
The delay, according to the source who spoke to Vanguard in Abuja on Monday night, is intentional, with Atiku reportedly planning to register in person rather than delegating the process.
“He returned to Nigeria for the burial of the late President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, coming straight from a business trip abroad. From Daura, he travelled back overseas for a planned two-week break,” the source explained.
The source emphasized that Atiku’s physical presence is considered crucial to the symbolic and strategic weight of the move.
“For someone as high-profile as His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, people need to physically see him picking up his membership card and completing the formalities. Once he returns from his break, that’s one of the first major things he is expected to do,” the insider said.
Atiku is said to be well aware of the political significance of the switch, particularly as it could influence public perception and shape alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While the exact date of his official registration with ADC remains unconfirmed, the source suggested that the move would be timed for maximum media attention and political impact.
“It’s not just about joining a party—it’s about how and when it is done,” the source noted. “His entry into ADC will mark a major turning point in the country’s opposition landscape.”
Atiku’s expected defection to the ADC comes at a time of growing realignment within Nigeria’s political blocs, with analysts watching closely to see how the move could affect the balance of power leading up to the next presidential race.
