The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, departed Abuja for Europe on Wednesday.

The former Vice President has faced significant criticism for often leaving Nigeria soon after each election.

In contrast to the post-2015 and 2019 elections, Atiku stayed in the country for several months following the 2023 election.

During this time, he engaged in party activities and consultations that many believe are in preparation for the 2027 elections.

Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, stated on Wednesday that the former Vice President had gone on a brief foreign business trip accompanied by family members, friends, and associates.

The statement read in part, “Nigeria’s leading opposition figure and former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has embarked on a business trip to Europe.

“The former Vice President departed from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at 11 AM on Wednesday, the 26th of June, 2024, for his first port of call.

“He was accompanied to the airport by family members, friends, and associates.

“This morning, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar proceeded on a short foreign business trip. He will be back in the country soon.”