2027: PDP Leaders Search for Northern Running Mate for Makinde, Sideline Atiku

Recent developments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reveal a significant shift as influential party members appear to prefer Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential race. This strategic maneuver comes just days after a peace agreement was brokered among various factions of the party, underscoring ongoing internal tensions.

Despite calls for unity, a faction loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike is actively advocating for Makinde’s candidacy. Their goal is to disrupt Atiku’s ambitions, whom they label a “serial contestant.” According to multiple sources within the party, there is deep-seated resentment toward Atiku stemming from his handling of the 2023 elections, where he failed to address the grievances of five aggrieved governors.

One source explained the frustration: “Every election cycle, you will be given a presidential ticket; you will bungle it. Look at the mess that he caused for us at the 2023 election. What was difficult in going to kneel before the aggrieved five governors and winning the election for us?” This sentiment reflects the belief that Atiku’s political missteps cost the party a viable chance at regaining power.

Key party figures, including Wike, Makinde, and former governors Samuel Ortom, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Okezie Ikpeazu, had united against Atiku during the last election cycle. One insider lamented, “Just because of Ayu, you sacrificed five governors. There was no way those five governors would not have changed the story for us. We lost the presidential election by less than a million votes.” This criticism emphasizes the perceived betrayal Atiku committed by prioritizing his alliance with former PDP chairman Iyorchia Ayu over party solidarity.

Within the National Working Committee (NWC), there is growing apprehension regarding Atiku’s viability as a candidate in 2027. Some members have noted his age and lack of engagement with party factions. “We are supporting Seyi Makinde. Let this aspiration go to the South West this time. Makinde has shown capacity. He is a Christian and a Southerner,” one NWC member stated. “We only need to get a powerful northern candidate for him, and he is good to go.” This perspective highlights the party’s desire for fresh leadership capable of resonating with a broader demographic.

Regarding the ongoing speculation about Peter Obi, the former Labour Party candidate, a PDP leader indicated that Obi has yet to commit to joining the PDP, adding a layer of uncertainty to the party’s strategy. “On Obi, I can tell you he has not made up his mind to come to the PDP. If he decides today, the equation may change. For now, he is still with the Labour Party,” the leader remarked.

Governor Makinde himself has openly stated his readiness to pursue the presidency in 2027. During a recent visit to Fashola farm in Oyo town, he asserted, “Speculations about my political future are unnecessary. I am old enough to speak for myself on any issue without fear or intimidation.” This declaration positions him as a confident contender and signals his intent to shape his political destiny.

Makinde also cautioned against the risks of Nigeria evolving into a one-party state, reflecting a broader concern among party members about maintaining a democratic landscape.

Attempts to reach PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and Deputy Spokesman Abdullahi Ibrahim for comment were unsuccessful. In response to inquiries about the emerging dynamics, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, refrained from engaging with the controversy, while Phrank Shaibu, Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, responded dismissively to concerns about Makinde’s rise. “Is it not too early? We are concerned about the welfare of Nigerians. We are not bothered about their machinations,” he stated, urging a focus on pressing national issues rather than party politics.

As the 2027 elections approach, the tensions within the PDP continue to simmer, setting the stage for an intriguing political landscape.