In a significant political development, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially confirmed its intention to engage in high-level consultations with former presidential candidates Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar. This move forms a core part of the opposition party's broader strategy to reposition itself for the 2027 general elections.
Strategic Consultations to Restore National Relevance
Emmanuel Ogidi, the PDP's South-South Chairman, revealed the plans during an appearance on Channels Television's Morning Brief on Wednesday. He stated that the party leadership has embarked on a wide-ranging series of engagements with influential political figures across Nigeria. The primary objective, according to Ogidi, is to restore the party's national relevance following its defeat in the 2023 presidential election.
"We're doing the rounds. We have already seen a former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, and a former President, IBB," Ogidi said. He directly addressed the anticipated question about the Labour Party's 2023 flagbearer, confirming, "I know you're going to ask me about Obi. Yes, we also have plans to see Peter Obi."
Addressing Internal Crisis and Leadership Tussles
This outreach initiative comes at a critical time for the PDP, which has been grappling with severe internal crises and leadership disputes since losing power to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015. The party's challenges intensified after its 2023 election loss and were further complicated by a contentious national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Currently, two factions are laying claim to the PDP's national leadership, raising serious concerns about the party's unity and cohesion. This internal rift poses a significant threat to its preparedness for upcoming off-season elections and the crucial 2027 polls.
Broad Engagement with Political Heavyweights
Ogidi emphasized that the planned meeting with Atiku Abubakar is equally strategic, noting the former Vice President's continued significance in the nation's political landscape. "Even Atiku Abubakar, as the former vice president of the country, we are going to meet him. You see, PDP is the real face of democracy in Nigeria," he added.
Both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar are former stalwarts of the PDP. Obi served as the party's vice-presidential candidate in 2019, while Atiku was its presidential candidate in both 2019 and 2023. Their subsequent moves to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after the 2023 elections dealt a blow to the PDP's national support base.
In a related development, members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), led by National Chairman Tanimu Turaki, met with former President Goodluck Jonathan at his Abuja office on Tuesday. Following the meeting, Turaki stated that Jonathan reassured the party of his continued loyalty as an active, card-carrying member.
The PDP's concerted effort to consult with these major figures underscores its attempt to bridge internal gaps, consolidate its base, and present a formidable front ahead of the next electoral cycle. The success of these talks could fundamentally reshape the opposition dynamics in Nigerian politics as the race for 2027 begins to take shape.
