By: Joy Musa
In a surprising political turn, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is reportedly championing efforts to bring former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi back into the fold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), just weeks after declaring Obi’s presidential ambitions dead.
Loading ...Despite previously stating at a Thanksgiving event in Abuja that Obi had lost his chance at the presidency, PDP insiders now reveal that Wike is working behind the scenes to offer Obi the party’s 2027 presidential ticket. According to a source within the PDP National Working Committee, Wike sees Obi as a strategic figure capable of unifying opposition ranks in the absence of Atiku Abubakar, who has allegedly realigned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“The Minister is working seriously to bring Obi back,” the anonymous source said. “With Atiku out, Wike believes Obi is the strongest contender to rally opposition forces against Tinubu in 2027.”
Obi, who previously served as PDP’s vice-presidential candidate in 2019 and ran under the Labour Party in 2023, retains widespread popularity especially among younger voters and the grassroots Obidient Movement. However, the Labour Party has recently been plagued by internal divisions, adding to speculation about Obi’s political future.
Reacting to the developments, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, coordinator of the Obidient Movement, acknowledged the outreach efforts:
“The goldfish has no hiding place. We’re aware people are reaching out. But our focus remains on presenting Peter Obi as a unifying figure. Any platform that supports that cause will be considered.”
Meanwhile, Wike’s media aide Lere Olayinka denied any knowledge of the negotiations, stating via social media, “No!” and claiming no involvement by party stakeholders.
As internal consultations intensify within the PDP, other presidential hopefuls are reportedly preparing to stake their claim. These include Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), and former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu).
With the 2027 elections looming, political realignments are heating up across Nigeria’s opposition landscape and all eyes remain on Obi’s next move.
