Pro-Wike PDP Faction Seeks Strong Northern Running Mate for Makinde
Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike are reportedly making moves to sideline former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the 2027 presidential race.
This faction is rallying behind Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, positioning him to challenge Bola Tinubu, who is expected to run for reelection.
The pro-Wike group, which includes members of the National Working Committee, is advocating for Makinde’s candidacy, pointing to Atiku’s perceived shortcomings. Some party leaders hold Atiku responsible for the party’s loss in the 2023 election, believing his defense of former national chairman Iyorchia Ayu during the “Ayu-must-go” campaign was detrimental.
Concerns over Atiku’s age and viability as a candidate in 2027 have led to calls for a younger option, with Makinde’s profile as a Christian from the South making him an appealing choice. A source criticized Atiku’s handling of the election, saying, “He could have made amends with the aggrieved governors and secured a win for us.”
The source further lamented, “Atiku’s loyalty to Ayu compromised our position. We lost the presidential race by just over a million votes, and those governors could have changed the outcome.”
In light of this, the faction is actively seeking a strong northern candidate to join Makinde’s ticket. Although Makinde has not officially declared his interest in the 2027 election, he has expressed confidence in his qualifications and plans to support a presidential agenda when appropriate.
Meanwhile, Atiku’s camp has dismissed the faction’s efforts, asserting that they are not concerned by the internal dissent. Phrank Shaibu, Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, stated, “We are focused on the pressing economic issues facing Nigerians, not on 2027. It’s too early for such discussions, and we remain unconcerned about their schemes.”
