The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to hold strategic consultations with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex–Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and other influential political stakeholders as part of efforts to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This was disclosed on Wednesday by Emmanuel Ogidi, the PDP’s South-South Chairman, during an appearance on Channels Television. Ogidi explained that the party has already commenced wide-ranging consultations with prominent political leaders across the country to reaffirm its relevance despite ongoing internal challenges.
According to him, the outreach drive is aimed at re-engaging critical national figures and rebuilding confidence in the PDP as Nigeria’s leading opposition party. He noted that the party has already met with former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida as part of the initiative.
“We are reaching out across the country. We have already visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former President IBB,” Ogidi said. “The idea is to engage key stakeholders and let them know that the PDP is alive, active, and moving forward.”
Ogidi confirmed that similar meetings are planned with both Obi and Atiku, describing them as important figures with deep roots in the PDP. He stressed that the party is committed to reconnecting with all major opposition leaders in the country.
“People often ask about Peter Obi, and yes, we intend to meet with him. The same applies to Atiku Abubakar. As a former vice president, he remains a respected leader, and we will engage him as well,” Ogidi stated, adding that the PDP remains “the true face of democracy in Nigeria.”
Both Obi and Atiku were prominent members of the PDP in the past, serving as vice presidential and presidential candidates in the 2019 elections. Atiku also contested the 2023 presidential election on the PDP platform. However, both politicians have since pitched their tents with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The renewed engagement comes at a time when the PDP is grappling with internal divisions following its loss to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections.
In a related development, members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), led by National Chairman Tanimu Turaki, met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja on Tuesday. Turaki said Jonathan reassured the party of his continued commitment and loyalty.
“He assured us that he remains a card-carrying member of the PDP and is committed to supporting the party,” Turaki told journalists after the meeting. “He acknowledged that the PDP has done a lot for him, and he is willing to give back as much as possible.”
Turaki described Jonathan’s remarks as encouraging, noting that they have boosted the party’s morale as it prepares for upcoming off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as the 2027 general elections.