The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed concerns over discussions about Peter Obi’s potential return to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Some party leaders are reportedly attempting to persuade Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, to rejoin the PDP ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with the possibility of him becoming the party’s presidential candidate.
Obi, who contested as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has recently stated that he intends to serve only one term, believing that four years is sufficient to implement changes in Nigeria. PDP leaders, including the Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, have confirmed that the party is indeed trying to woo Obi back to the PDP.
However, Wike has dismissed the idea of Obi’s return, stating that it would be detrimental to the party. During a media chat, Wike questioned the rationale behind bringing Obi back to the PDP, citing the ex-governor’s previous criticisms of the party as “rotten.” Wike argued that Obi’s return would undermine the party’s credibility and erode its ideological foundation. He emphasized that allowing Obi to rejoin the party would be driven by ambition rather than principle, potentially destroying the party’s remaining ideology.
The development comes as the PDP prepares for the 2027 presidential election, with various factions within the party exploring different strategies to regain power. The possibility of Obi’s return has sparked debate among party members, with some viewing it as a strategic move to strengthen the party’s chances, while others, like Wike, see it as a threat to the party’s integrity. As the discussions continue, the PDP’s next steps and the outcome of these talks remain uncertain, leaving the party’s future direction unclear.
