The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has disclosed that strategic efforts are underway to persuade former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi to return to the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This revelation was made on Thursday by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Ibrahim Abdullahi, during an interview on Arise News.
“Peter Obi is our product. He emerged as the PDP vice-presidential candidate in 2019, and we certainly want him back,” Abdullahi stated. “He is a tremendous political asset, and any party fortunate enough to have him will benefit immensely.”
Obi, who served as the running mate to Atiku Abubakar in the 2019 presidential election under the PDP, parted ways with the party in 2022. He joined the Labour Party (LP) shortly before the 2023 general elections, where he secured the party’s presidential ticket and ran a high-profile campaign.
Despite leaving a dominant party structure for a relatively less established platform, Obi emerged as a significant contender, amassing over six million votes nationwide. He won in twelve states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), ultimately finishing third behind President Bola Tinubu of the APC and Atiku Abubakar of the PDP.
Abdullahi acknowledged Obi’s remarkable showing, stating that his performance under difficult circumstances confirmed his massive political appeal and national influence.
“Let’s be honest if he hadn’t charted his own path the way he did and still managed to secure over six million votes despite widespread electoral frustration and manipulation, it speaks volumes. Peter Obi is political capital, and there’s no denying that,” he said.
Although still a member of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has recently signaled openness to political collaboration, particularly through engagements with opposition groups, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC). His posture has raised speculation about possible future alliances or realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
The PDP’s overtures come amid internal restructuring and leadership changes within the party, following its second consecutive loss in presidential elections. The party is believed to be rebuilding its national strategy with an eye on forming a strong coalition to challenge the ruling APC in the next electoral cycle.
Meanwhile, it is noteworthy that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who flew the PDP’s flag in both the 2019 and 2023 elections, has reportedly resigned from the party, further reshaping the political landscape and opening space for potential new leadership within the PDP.
As Nigeria approaches another election season, political observers expect more realignments, mergers, and strategic negotiations among major opposition figures seeking to mount a credible challenge to the APC-led administration.
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