Atiku’s Exit from PDP Sparks Celebration in Adamawa: Party Leaders Hail “Timely Blessing”

 “Party Faithful Rejoice Over Former VP’s Departure”

Political expectations on their head, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa State are openly celebrating the exit of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the party. Far from mourning the departure of one of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures, party loyalists are calling it a long-awaited boost to their political fortunes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The state PDP chairman, Tahir Shehu, made headlines on Wednesday with his unequivocal remarks, describing Atiku’s exit as “a positive development” for the party. Speaking in Yola, the state capital, Shehu emphasized that the PDP in Adamawa remains strong, vibrant, and more united without Atiku’s influence.

“Adamawa State is the home state of PDP,” Shehu stated. “Atiku himself became governor-elect under this party in 1999 before being elevated to Vice President. His departure doesn’t weaken us—it strengthens us.”

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A Recharged PDP Without Atiku

According to Shehu, Adamawa’s political history shows that the PDP has only ever lost control of the state under unique circumstances—most notably in 2015 when, under President Goodluck Jonathan, a candidate was imposed from Abuja. That move, Shehu said, was decisively rejected by Adamawa’s voters.

Under the current administration of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, the PDP has firmly regained its footing, and leaders insist the party is now more prepared than ever to maintain its dominance.

“We’ve reclaimed our mandate and stabilized the party. Come 2027, we will be unbeatable,” Shehu said with confidence.

Grassroots Leaders Echo the Sentiment

The positive sentiment is not limited to the state capital. From Michika Local Government Area, party chieftain Luka Tumba added a sharp rebuke of Atiku’s political legacy. Describing his departure as “an answered prayer,” Tumba claimed that Atiku has been more of a burden than an asset to the PDP, especially during critical electoral seasons.

“He has been an obstacle to the party during election time,” Tumba said. “Adamawa people have not benefited from his political standing, whether as Vice President or as a serial presidential candidate.”

Tumba also pointed out a symbolic contradiction: the road leading to Atiku’s hometown of Jada, he said, was constructed by the late President Muhammadu Buhari—not Atiku himself. Yet, the former Vice President continues to enjoy vast private business interests, none of which have tangibly translated into local development, according to Tumba.

“We are even considering organizing a thanksgiving for his exit,” he quipped, “because his departure has renewed our party’s strength and unity.”

Rewriting the Political Equation in Adamawa

Atiku’s exit, once expected to be a significant blow to the PDP, is now being reframed as a cleansing moment for the party in Adamawa. Rather than triggering divisions, it appears to be solidifying the base, energizing local leaders, and creating a wave of optimism among party loyalists.

Political analysts watching from the sidelines suggest that Adamawa’s PDP is using this moment to realign and rid itself of internal power tussles that may have hindered the party’s momentum in past election cycles. The message from the state leadership is now loud and clear: the PDP is not just surviving Atiku’s exit—it is thriving.

Looking Ahead to 2027

With over two years until the next general elections, the PDP in Adamawa is already positioning itself for a renewed campaign. Governor Fintiri’s administration continues to anchor the party’s public image, and with Atiku now out of the picture, party loyalists believe there is a clearer path toward political harmony and electoral victory.

In a region often shaped by personalities, Adamawa’s PDP is betting on structure, grassroots credibility, and regional pride to carry it forward—without its once-celebrated political son.