I remain steadfast in PDP - Atiku Abubakar denies reports of Defection

The media advisor of the 2023 presidential candidate, Paul Ibe, on Friday described the allegations as “falsehoods” and a “politically motivated smear campaign”. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denied reports that he has dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for another party. The media advisor of the 2023 presidential candidate, Paul Ibe, on Friday described the allegations as “falsehoods” and a “politically motivated smear campaign”. The elucidation comes to rumors of some online platforms claiming that Atiku left the PDP to join another party before the 2027 presidential election. In the statement, Atiku confirmed his loyalty to the PDP and said he remained a ‘dedicated, genuine and loyal member’ of the opposition party. The statement reads: “We wouldn’t usually waste words on faceless social media platforms such as the so-called Adamawa events. In light of inquiries from the relevant Nigerians and credible members of the press, we are obliged to correct the record.” “His excellence Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), did not – repeat, not – resign from the PDP. He remains a steadfast, bonafide and loyal member of the party.” The statement accused the source of the rumor, a Facebook page, of allegedly orchestrating by ‘desperate political operatives’ allegedly orchestrated to make confusion. “It’s a calculated attempt to deceive the public and sow disagreement among the millions of Nigerians looking at Atiku Abubakar for direction and leadership.” Atiku’s assistant condemned the reports further than not only false news, but also a ‘blatant and shameful political smear campaign’. “We are calling on Nigerians, especially supporters of the Waziri Adamawa, to disregard this malicious manufacturing. It is a dull, ominous problem that deserves nothing but contempt. ‘ “Atiku Abubakar remains committed to the ideals of the PDP and the democratic pursuit of the Nigerian population,” the statement added.