The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, is reportedly engaged in ongoing talks with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other key political figures.
Dr. Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, confirmed in Abuja on Thursday that Obi is open to strategic engagements with individuals and political parties.
“It’s no longer a secret,” Yunusa said. “The PDP has reached out and continues to reach out. Many of their top leaders have spoken openly about wanting Peter Obi back.”
Yunusa reiterated that Obi’s political vision goes beyond personal ambition. “As he has always maintained, Peter Obi is ready for any conversation focused on rescuing Nigeria from the dire social and economic crisis it currently faces. This has never been about him; it’s about Nigeria and the Nigerian people.”
Responding to questions on whether any formal offers have been made or decisions reached, Yunusa noted that discussions are still in progress. “When the time is right and in line with national interest, a collective decision will be announced,” he said.
He further stressed that the challenges confronting Nigeria require a united front across opposition lines. “Everyone genuinely interested in building a better Nigeria understands that this is bigger than any individual or party. Unity of purpose is essential,” he added.
As revealed by SaharaReporters, Dr. Katch Onanuju, a founding member of the Obidient Movement and Director General of the Heritage Centre, described the current talks as a welcome development. Speaking by phone, he remarked, “This is a healthy sign. Many of the issues the opposition seeks to solve today originated from the PDP, and it’s only fitting that solutions may also be found through reconciliation and collaboration among opposition forces.”
Onanuju highlighted that Obi, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and many others were long-standing PDP members before the 2023 elections. According to him, the party’s refusal to zone the presidency to the South after President Buhari’s eight-year tenure alienated several southern leaders and prompted Obi’s exit.
“The G-5 governors led by Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the FCT, stayed in the PDP but effectively opposed Atiku’s candidacy,” he said. “Now, another chance is emerging to correct those past mistakes and build an inclusive political alliance ahead of 2027.”
Echoing similar sentiments, PDP elder statesman and founding member Professor Jerry Gana, during an interview on Arise TV, noted that Peter Obi would be a formidable contender should the PDP adopt him as its flagbearer.
Obi had resigned from the PDP in May 2022 after disagreements over the zoning of the party’s presidential ticket. He subsequently joined the Labour Party, where he became its standard-bearer and garnered support, through the Obidient Movement.