Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has left the country for Europe to take a deserved rest after the energy-sapping PDP presidential primaries.

The former Vice President who, had registered in Yola before his departure, however, said that his absence would not in any way affect his interest in the political direction of Nigeria.

In a statement by his Media Office in Abuja yesterday, the former Vice President said he would never be detached from the affairs of the country because its progress is uppermost in his heart and mind.

While taking the time to rest in Europe, the former Vice President said he would keep in touch with his associates and stakeholders wherever he is in the world.

Meanwhile, the former Vice President has urged Nigerians to come out toregister en masse for the 2011 polls because, according to him, their vote is their power.

The statement also announced the relocation of his Media Office from the Campaign Headquarters at No 1 Luanda Crescent, Wuse II, back to No. 61, Ebitu Ukiwe Street, Jabi, Abuja. Media organizations are advised to direct all their enquiries to the Jabi office.