Friday, July 18, 2025 Abuja, Nigeria:
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has confirmed it is making “concerted efforts” to bring former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, back into its fold. This revelation came amid mounting speculation over the opposition’s repositioning in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.
Leadership Admits “Doing Everything Possible” for Obi’s Return
Speaking to national media, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, declared that the party sees Obi as “a great asset” and is pulling out all the stops to have him return. “Peter Obi is our product, and the PDP indeed wants to get him back. He is a very great capital for any political party, and any political party that will have him will be to their advantage,” Abdullahi stated, acknowledging the impact Obi made in 2023 even amidst electoral controversies.
Abdullahi admitted that the PDP underestimated Obi’s potential during the last general elections, where the former governor garnered over six million votes and won twelve states, including the Federal Capital Territory. Despite challenges, party insiders cite his “political capital and national appeal” as irreplaceable.
PDP’s Open Appeals as Opposition Realignment Looms
The PDP’s efforts are not limited to Abuja. In Anambra State, the party’s committee has issued a formal invitation for Obi to return “home and reunite with the now rejuvenated and restructured PDP,” further confirming coordinated moves at national and state levels. Party leaders believe Obi’s presence is essential as opposition forces seek to counter the ruling party’s dominance in 2027.
Meanwhile, talk of broader opposition coalitions has intensified, especially as both Peter Obi and 2023 PDP flagbearer Atiku Abubakar have been linked to new opposition alliances and possible mergers with other major parties. Obi himself, while reiterating loyalty to the Labour Party, is reportedly open to working within a broad coalition, increasing speculation about a unified front against the APC.
Labour Party Reacts and Warnings from Stakeholders
Reactions have been swift and dramatic. Labour Party officials, contending with internal strife, have warned Obi against abandoning the party, even issuing ultimatums for clarity on his allegiance amid rumors of coalition talks. The party leadership insists that any move away from Labour would be “telling about [Obi’s] intentions” and have urged him to focus on rebuilding the Labour platform.
Within PDP ranks, prominent chieftains and analysts highlight that Obi’s organic followership and “Obidient” movement could be leveraged for opposition unity, but warn of “recurring lack of creativity” if the old guard fails to properly accommodate such new energy.
Hopes and Stakes for 2027
As 2027 draws nearer, the PDP’s bold courtship of Peter Obi underscores a wider political realignment. With major opposition figures contemplating new coalitions and internal party crises deepening, Obi’s decision is set to shape the opposition’s fortunes. Close observers now watch for signs of Obi’s next move, which could spell a new direction for Nigeria’s democracy and opposition politics.