2027: PDP begs Peter Obi to return to party

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Anambra State Chapter, has publicly appealed to former Governor Peter Obi to return to the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

This call came after the party held an enlarged State Executive Committee, SEC, meeting in Awka on Thursday, aimed at repositioning its political machinery.

Peter Obi, who served as governor under the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, later joined PDP but defected to the Labour Party, LP, shortly before the 2023 presidential election.

His departure followed deep dissatisfaction with the PDP’s internal politics and what he perceived as a blocked path to his presidential ambition.

The communique released after the Thursday meeting was signed by the State Chairman, Mr Chidi Chidebe. It reflected a tone of reconciliation and urgency.

Chidebe noted that aligning with ideologically weak coalitions had failed to produce lasting results.

He called for consolidation within PDP to rescue Nigeria’s democracy and governance structure.

“We extend a warm and open invitation to all aggrieved and former members of our party, especially Mr Peter Obi, our respected former governor,” Chidebe said.

“The party has been restructured and rejuvenated, and it is time to return home.”

Chidebe said PDP will welcome Obi and others willing to return, describing the party as the only viable national platform to effect real change in Nigeria.

He emphasized unity and shared purpose as critical for electoral victory in 2027.

“We invite all our brothers and sisters to return and join us in our renewed quest for a better Nigeria,” he added.

In a show of internal realignment, the PDP also announced the unanimous nomination of Chief Clems Ezike to occupy the vacant position of National Ex-Officio representing Anambra.

Chidebe urged the Southeast Zonal Executive Committee led by Chief Ali Odefa to formally recognize and communicate Ezike’s nomination to the national leadership.

Chidebe also rallied Anambra voters to support the party’s flagbearer for the upcoming governorship election, Mr Jude Ezenwafor, and his running mate, Mr Francis Okeke.

He emphasized the need for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct a free, fair, and transparent process that reflects the people’s will.

Political analysts say the PDP’s outreach to Peter Obi signals a recognition of his growing influence in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Despite contesting under LP in 2023, Obi maintains a strong support base in the Southeast, particularly among young voters disillusioned with the traditional power blocs.

Obi, known for his disciplined lifestyle and anti-corruption stance, is yet to publicly respond to the PDP’s appeal.

However, sources within his circle suggest he remains focused on building a credible third-force movement anchored on people-oriented governance and transparency.

The PDP’s effort to reclaim Obi could reshape the political alignment in the Southeast ahead of 2027.

Whether Obi accepts the olive branch or continues on his independent path remains one of the biggest questions in Nigeria’s evolving political drama.

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