The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is actively pursuing the return of prominent opposition figures, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, from the Labour Party (LP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), respectively, as part of its strategy to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
Ibrahim Abdullahi, the PDP’s deputy national spokesman, revealed these efforts during an appearance on Channels Television’s *Sunrise Daily* program. Abdullahi argued that had Obi and Kwankwaso remained with the PDP prior to the 2023 presidential election, the party might have won against the APC’s Bola Tinubu.
“In the 2023 election, Tinubu secured 8,794,726 votes, while Atiku Abubakar, who was the PDP’s candidate, received 6,984,520 votes. Peter Obi garnered 6,101,533 votes and Kwankwaso, the former Kano State governor, came fourth with 1,496,687 votes. The numbers suggest that if Obi and Kwankwaso had stayed in the PDP, the dynamics of the election could have been different,” Abdullahi said.
Abdullahi expressed regret over the departures of these figures, stating, “If Obi and Kwankwaso had not left, we might have been in power today, and Nigerians would not be facing the current hardships.”
When asked about efforts to bring Obi and Kwankwaso back into the PDP, Abdullahi confirmed ongoing discussions. “Yes, discussions are underway. You may see Peter Obi talking with Atiku or even meeting with other key figures like Nasir El-Rufai. We are doing our best to navigate the challenges we face and are hopeful for a positive outcome.”
Regarding the potential return of Obi and Kwankwaso, Abdullahi indicated that a unified strategy would be essential. “If they return, there might be negotiations on who will lead. The main goal is to address the current state of despair and insecurity in Nigeria.”
Abdullahi emphasized that the party’s focus is on alleviating the hardships faced by Nigerians rather than individual ambitions. “Atiku is willing to step aside if it helps Nigeria, and we are ready to support whoever can lead us out of this crisis.”
He also acknowledged the democratic rights of both Atiku and Obi to aspire for leadership positions, reiterating that the party will back the most capable candidate to improve the country’s situation.
The PDP’s efforts to reunite with Obi and Kwankwaso reflect a strategic move to consolidate opposition forces in preparation for the next electoral challenge, aiming to present a unified front against the APC in the 2027 elections.
