Maeda Atsuko to graduate from AKB48

A really shocking news was revealed during the last day of the AKB48's Saitama Super Arena concert (Day 3) earlier today. I wasn't at the location to hear it for myself and was unable to witness it but from the oncoming twitter feeds during the concert, I learned that Acchan announced her decision to graduate from AKB48.

Even though I support Yuko more than Acchan, I still felt at a lost at the fact that Acchan will be leaving AKB48. She's been the cover girl of AKB48 for so long and I think I might still need some time to get used this, even though I am not really a supporter of her.

No details of the graduation were revealed yet.

Anyways, if this truly is for the best for her, I shall support her decision and wish her all the best in her future careers and life. I really loved her solo single and hope that she continues as a solo singer after leaving AKB48.

Image from Nikkan Sports

UPDATE (27th March):
Translation of a post on Acchan's Official Blog

Good morning everyone

I’m in Hong Kong right now

These days sure are going by fast

I’ve been thinking about a lot of things and my report to all of you is coming a bit late

I, Maeda Atsuko, will be graduating from AKB48

I announced it at Saitama Super Arena the day before yesterday

Even though I came to that conclusion, I was full of anxiety up until that very moment

At the Saitama Super Arena everyone was having fun, singing and dancing and all of the members were really shining

The fans in the audience had nothing but smiles on their faces

I really thought it would be great to continue as it is.

But, during the encore when we were singing our songs, I saw the guest seating full of penlights and I really felt happy.

So, I have to go out on my own now and I wanted to properly announce it to everyone.

And
Then I said to Takamina (Takahashi Minami) who was right next to me, that “I am going to announce it.”

With those few words, it was the beginning for me to start running (towards my dreams)

I have been given so many chances, that I need to be the one to take the first step

Because if I don’t those behind me won’t be able to continue after me

Hearing everyone support me after my announcement at Saitama Super Arena, well that was the warmest moment of my life

It made me realize that I was not making a wrong decision.

Of course I can also hear people saying, “don’t quit!”

And that made me feel really happy

The members have been shedding tears for me and have genuinely been concerned for me

I am so so happy that I am able to feel all of this love

The members will always, always be my friends, no matter what happens

So, I want to be able to give the members proper and reliable advice in the future

I still can’t sort the thoughts out in my head

Regardless
“AKB” is the best

Akimoto-san
Thank you so so much for warmly watching over me despite my selfishness, my extreme selfishness

You’ve looked out for me ever since I was 14 years old

If Akimoto-san wasn’t there, I wouldn’t be where I am today

Please let me continue to have conversations about various things with you in the future

Fans

I’ve been reading a ton of your comments

Thank you guys for giving me your support

Please continue to look after me in the future

I love my fans and everyone around me.

Source: tokyohive

UPDATE (24th May):
With the release of the Tokyo Dome concert dates, and that Acchan would be graduating on the day after the concert, the date of her graduation is set to be on the 27th of August.