PDP Plans High-Level Talks With Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar in Bid to Rebuild Influence

The Peoples Democratic Party is set to hold consultations with former presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, as part of efforts to revive the party’s national standing ahead of future elections.

This was confirmed by PDP South-South Chairman Emmanuel Ogidi during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Wednesday. Ogidi stated the outreach is aimed at reconnecting with key political figures to signal the party’s revitalization.

“We are doing the rounds. We have already met with former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida. We also have plans to see Peter Obi and even Atiku Abubakar,” Ogidi said. “PDP is the real face of democracy in Nigeria.”

Both Obi and Atiku are former members of the PDP who have since moved to the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 elections.

The announcement follows a meeting on Tuesday between the PDP National Working Committee, led by Chairman Tanimu Turaki, and former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. After the discussion, Turaki told reporters that Jonathan reaffirmed his commitment as an active member of the party and pledged his support, particularly as the PDP prepares for upcoming off-cycle and general elections.

The PDP, which governed Nigeria from 1999 to 2015, has faced internal divisions since its loss in the 2023 general elections. The party is currently navigating a leadership dispute at the national level following the expulsion of prominent figures such as FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose.