The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Iliya Damagum, has downplayed the resignation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the party, describing it as a familiar and recurring episode in the PDP’s political journey.

Speaking to journalists on Friday in Bauchi, Damagum said the party is neither shocked nor overly concerned by Atiku’s latest move, noting that his exits and returns have become a pattern over the years.

“This is not the first time; we’re expecting him back,” Damagum said pointedly.

He explained that the PDP had grown used to Atiku’s political maneuverings, seeing his most recent departure not as a definitive break but as part of a well-worn strategy. According to Damagum, the party’s calm reaction stems from either its confidence in its internal strength or its doubt about the permanence of Atiku’s decision.

His remarks follow widespread reports that the former vice president is working to establish a new political platform, the Alliance for Democratic Congress (ADC), ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Damagum emphasized that the PDP remains focused and undeterred, maintaining that the party’s structures and ideals continue to attract broad support across the country.

“Atiku comes and goes, but the PDP remains,” he added.