Politics

Countdown to 2027: PDP’s Presidential Race Heats Up as Atiku Steps Aside

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 21st, 2025.

Countdown to 2027: PDP’s Presidential Race Heats Up as Atiku Steps Aside

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The race for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential ticket in 2027 has officially gained momentum following the exit of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, creating space for fresh contenders such as Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, among others.

Sources within the PDP, who spoke anonymously, disclosed that the ambitions of both governors are well-known among the party’s leadership. One party official emphasized that the PDP remains open to all aspirants willing to abide by the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.

While prominent PDP figure Chief Bode George acknowledged ongoing efforts to field a southern candidate, opinions remain divided within the National Executive Committee (NEC) on the issue of zoning ahead of the party’s 101st NEC meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 24. Key decisions, including the location of the presidential ticket and the national convention’s date, are expected to top the agenda.

In a recent interview, Bala Ibrahim, Director of Publicity for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), dismissed the PDP’s prospects, asserting that the party’s choice of candidate or zoning strategy would not prevent a likely defeat in the next general election.

At its 100th NEC meeting held on June 30, the PDP confirmed Senator Samuel Anyanwu as its National Secretary, resolving a longstanding internal leadership tussle. However, the party was soon rocked by Atiku’s departure, which he attributed to irreconcilable differences and a deviation from the party’s founding ideals.

In his resignation letter, Atiku wrote, “With deep regret, I resign from the PDP, a party I helped establish. Though grateful for the roles I’ve held — including two terms as Vice President and two presidential candidacies — I can no longer align with the direction the party is heading.”

Party insiders believe Atiku’s departure may ease internal tensions, previously fueled by his presidential ambitions, which have often clashed with the interests of other stakeholders. One source remarked that his exit offers a fresh start for aspirants like Makinde and Mohammed, both of whom have growing support among PDP loyalists.

“There’s now breathing space for other leaders to declare their interest without fearing Atiku’s dominance,” the source said. “This paves the way for a more inclusive and peaceful run-up to 2027.”

More aspirants are expected to emerge in the coming months, with names like Emmanuel Udom, former governor of Akwa Ibom, and even former President Goodluck Jonathan being floated as potential candidates.

A senior party member argued that Atiku’s repeated attempts to secure the presidency had triggered internal friction over the past decade. “His ambition led to serious divisions in 2019 and again in 2023,” the source said. “Many governors and party leaders refused to back him, and that’s when people like Peter Obi parted ways with the PDP.”

Now, party members are optimistic that the PDP can regroup and foster a new generation of leaders. “With Atiku out, there’s renewed hope that credible, competent individuals can step forward without the baggage of old rivalries,” another insider noted.

The PDP continues to emphasize its nationwide appeal, describing itself as a party with deep roots across all regions. “We’re still the major opposition,” said one leader. “We have sitting governors, senators, and a wide grassroots structure. The departure of some big names doesn’t change that.”

The party is also monitoring former allies and opposition figures forming new political fronts. On July 1, Atiku, alongside Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former APC chieftains Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai, announced a new coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aimed at building a united front against the APC.

The coalition named former Senate President David Mark as interim National Chairman and ex-Governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim Secretary.

Despite this shift, PDP officials remain confident in the party’s resilience. Former PDP Vice Chairman Eddy Olafeso likened the current upheaval to a temporary storm, saying, “Just as Japan recovered after the devastation of World War II, the PDP will emerge stronger.”

He emphasized the party’s commitment to reform and adherence to principles of fairness and equity as it looks toward the 2027 polls.

Meanwhile, Dr. Suleiman Tsauri, another top PDP figure, said the party’s structure remains robust and any candidate chosen would gain popularity through the party’s influence. “Let’s allow the NEC and zoning committees to do their work. The PDP remains Nigeria’s most popular party,” he said.

Preparations are already underway for the upcoming NEC meeting, where critical issues like the zoning of the presidential ticket and the timeline for the national convention are expected to be addressed.

An APC spokesperson downplayed any threat posed by Makinde, Mohammed, or others within the PDP. “These are regional figures with no national clout,” said Bala Ibrahim. “They lack the reach and profile to defeat President Tinubu.”

Regardless of the skepticism from the ruling party, the PDP is focused on restructuring and positioning itself for a strong comeback — with or without its former standard-bearer.