PDP Intensifies Efforts To Woo Peter Obi Back Ahead Of 2027 Elections.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has launched a concerted effort to bring Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, back into its fold, with party leaders describing him as a “valuable political asset” critical to their strategy for the 2027 general elections. The announcement, made by Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi during an interview on Arise Television, underscores the PDP’s determination to unify opposition forces and challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Abdullahi praised Obi’s remarkable performance in the 2023 presidential election, where he secured over six million votes and won 12 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, despite alleged electoral irregularities. “Peter Obi is our product, and the PDP indeed wants to get him back. He is a very great capital for any political party,” Abdullahi stated, acknowledging that Obi’s departure from the PDP in 2022 was a significant setback. He expressed confidence that Obi’s return could significantly bolster the party’s electoral prospects.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and the PDP’s vice-presidential candidate in 2019, left the party just before the 2023 primaries to join the Labour Party, citing internal wrangling and a lack of alignment with his aspirations. His campaign, marked by widespread support among young and urban voters, transformed the Labour Party into a formidable third force, challenging the dominance of the PDP and APC. Abdullahi admitted the PDP had underestimated Obi’s influence, noting that his ability to garner millions of votes despite “massive rigging” and “deliberate frustration” demonstrated his political clout.
The PDP’s renewed push to bring Obi back comes amidst significant changes within the party, including the recent resignation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who contested the presidency under the PDP in 2019 and 2023. Abdullahi described Atiku’s exit as “good riddance,” suggesting it could pave the way for fresh leadership and a restructured party. The PDP is reportedly engaged in ongoing consultations with key stakeholders to unify opposition voices, with Obi’s potential return seen as a cornerstone of this strategy.
However, Obi’s return is not guaranteed. He recently reaffirmed his commitment to the Labour Party while expressing openness to collaborating with a broader opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This coalition, which includes Atiku and other political heavyweights like former Senate President David Mark and former APC stalwart Nasir El-Rufai, aims to challenge the APC’s dominance in 2027. Political analysts suggest that Obi’s large support base, particularly among younger voters, may resist any move that positions him as a secondary figure in a coalition.
The PDP’s pursuit of Obi reflects broader efforts to consolidate opposition strength in a dynamic political landscape. Abdullahi expressed optimism about the potential reunion, stating, “In the fullness of time, we believe we might get him back. It will be a big boost to the PDP.” As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and growing public discontent, the PDP’s ability to reunite with Obi could reshape the opposition’s prospects in the lead-up to 2027.
