- Zoning, consensus on agenda at NEC meeting
- Makinde, Bala Mohammed among early frontrunners
The race for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2027 presidential ticket has officially begun following the exit of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, clearing the way for new contenders like Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.
Party insiders who spoke with The Press confirmed that both governors are widely seen as strong aspirants, though neither has formally declared. The party’s leadership, meanwhile, is focused on ensuring an open and inclusive process in line with its constitution.
Sources say the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC), set to meet Thursday, July 24, will place zoning and the party’s national convention high on its agenda.
In an interview with The Press, PDP chieftain Chief Bode George confirmed that moves are underway to secure a southern flagbearer, though not all NEC members agree. While some argue for zoning to the South, others are calling for a level playing field for all aspirants.
Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the PDP’s 2027 ambitions. APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said the opposition party is headed for defeat regardless of its eventual candidate.
The PDP’s 100th NEC meeting in June resolved a lingering leadership issue by confirming Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary. However, it failed to stem internal strife, culminating in Atiku’s exit from the party.
Atiku’s departure, which followed mounting frustration with the PDP’s direction, has been viewed by some members as a relief. A top party source said his ambition had long created tensions within the PDP, adding that his exit now provides breathing room for other aspirants.
“You see, Atiku’s departure will bring some calm to the party. His ambition often stood in the way of others. With him out, people like Makinde, Bala Mohammed, and even some former governors from the South can step forward,” the source said.
While Atiku has joined forces with other political figures under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition — including Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Nasir El-Rufai — PDP leaders insist their party remains Nigeria’s strongest opposition platform.
“Forget the noise about the ADC,” the source added. “PDP still has structure across all LGAs and states. We have sitting governors, senators, and lawmakers — we’re still a force.”
Another party member noted that Atiku’s recurring candidacy had been a destabilising factor since 2019, citing the defection of Peter Obi and the opposition of five governors in 2023. “His exit allows the PDP to rebuild and embrace a new generation of credible leaders.”
While the list of potential aspirants is expected to grow, party insiders say Makinde and Bala Mohammed are currently the most talked-about contenders.
Efforts by The Press to reach PDP Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and Governor Bala Mohammed’s media aide were unsuccessful.
However, a youth group, Bala Mohammed Vanguard, has already launched a grassroots campaign in support of the Bauchi governor. Its Director-General, Mohammed Jibo, and Media Director, Mudaddasir Musa, both confirmed the governor’s intention to run.
“Governor Bala Mohammed will contest in 2027. His record as FCT Minister and Bauchi governor speaks volumes,” Musa said. “No one else has delivered like him.”
While some PDP leaders, including George and Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor, are advocating for a southern candidate, others argue the ticket should remain open to all regions.
As the PDP heads into its critical NEC meeting, the party faces a defining moment: to either unite behind new leadership or remain bogged down by internal divides. Either way, the post-Atiku era has begun.
