Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has expressed his willingness to support Peter Obi if the party decides to select him as the candidate for the 2027 presidential elections.
In a recent interview with BBC Hausa Service, Atiku emphasized his commitment to abiding by the party’s decision should it favor the South-East region.
“I have said repeatedly, and I even mentioned it before the 2023 general elections, that if the PDP decides to zone the presidential ticket to the South or specifically the South-East, I won’t contest it. As long as it’s the decision of the party, I will abide by it. I contested the 2023 presidential ticket because it was open to all members of the party. If the party decides that it’s the turn of the South-East and Peter Obi is chosen, I won’t hesitate to support him,” Atiku stated.
He further revealed that a merger between the PDP and the Labour Party (LP) is a possibility, hinting at strategic alliances ahead of the 2027 elections. Atiku noted that members of the party would ultimately decide his role in the next election cycle.
Atiku also touched on his recent meeting with Peter Obi, which has sparked speculation about a potential alliance. He described the meeting as a friendly and routine interaction among opposition leaders, emphasizing its importance for Nigeria’s democratic health.
“It’s just a normal friendly meeting that we often have, particularly among us in the opposition parties. Such meetings are healthy for Nigeria’s democracy and in the country’s interest,” he remarked.
When asked about the prospects of a merger between the PDP and the Labour Party, Atiku was optimistic. “Yes, it’s very much possible. We can merge to achieve a common goal. So, it’s possible, and nothing can stop it if we wish to achieve that,” he said.
Addressing concerns about potential conflicts over the choice of a presidential candidate, Atiku dismissed such worries, assuring that the decision would not hinder merger discussions. “That’s not true. That challenge will not arise. I can tell you that the choice of who will fly the flag of the party won’t be an issue,” he affirmed.
