Mr Obasanjo has been vocal in his criticism of the president
Nigeria's former President Olusegun Obasanjo has quit the ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 28 March elections, tearing up his membership card in public.
Mr Obasanjo has been fiercely critical of President Goodluck Jonathan, who is seeking re-election on a PDP ticket.
Mr Jonathan is facing a strong challenge from opposition candidate Muhammadu Buhari.
The elections, due on 14 February, were postponed over security concerns.
BBC Nigeria analyst Ibrahim Shehu Adamu says Mr Obasanjo's decision is a major blow to the PDP, showing the divisions that have hit the party as it battles to extend its 15-year rule.
'Serious embarrassment'
In a statement, the PDP described Mr Obasanjo as a "revered leader of our party" and said it was "deeply saddened" by his resignation.
It added that it was "bewildered" by the former president's choice to tear up his party membership card in public.
No comments:
Post a Comment