High-ranking members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Senate President David Mark, are currently engaged in crucial closed-door discussions in Abuja.
The meeting, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, is sparking speculation about a significant political realignment in preparation for Nigeria’s 2027 general election.
The strategic talks are reportedly part of ongoing efforts to forge a formidable coalition aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid.
David Mark is presiding over the gathering, which includes a host of influential PDP figures such as former National Chairman Prince Uche Secondus and ex-governors Sule Lamido (Jigawa), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), and Senator Abdul Ningi.
Also in attendance are former PDP National Women Leader Josephine Anenih, former National Organizing Secretary Senator Austin Akobundu, former National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbondiyan, and former National Youth Leader Abdullahi Maibasira.
Sources close to the discussions indicate that the central theme revolves around whether prominent PDP members will fully integrate into the nascent coalition or maintain their PDP affiliation while forming a broader electoral alliance.
These talks reportedly highlight escalating internal discord within the PDP, particularly concerning Atiku Abubakar’s potential candidacy for the 2027 presidency.
A source informed Vanguard that “Several members of the PDP are already in dialogue with key figures in the coalition. A formal announcement could come as early as tomorrow.”
There are reports of internal opposition to Atiku’s potential bid, with some insiders expressing concerns that his victory could unexpectedly bolster the PDP’s prospects of unseating Tinubu, which they fear might disrupt existing regional political power-sharing arrangements.
A federal minister and a North East governor are reportedly among those who believe that power should remain in the South until 2031 before shifting back to the North.
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“It is increasingly clear that some factions are not comfortable with Atiku contesting again. Their fear is that he could win, which would mean a return to the North before the South completes its turn,” the source elaborated.
Despite the growing opposition, Atiku Abubakar remains steadfast in his intentions. The presence of numerous influential PDP figures at this meeting suggests that many are considering the possibility of departing the party alongside him.
Another insider commented, “This is just the tip of the iceberg. Many others who are sympathetic to Atiku’s position couldn’t attend but are watching closely. This meeting may signal the beginning of a new political movement.”
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, this high-level gathering signifies a potentially pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape.
, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Senate President David Mark, are currently engaged in crucial closed-door discussions in Abuja.){kind=link}