Atiku’s Exit Clears Path for New PDP Presidential Hopefuls Ahead of 2027

With the 2027 general election cycle gathering momentum, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) finds itself at a political crossroads following the formal exit of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Atiku’s departure from the PDP, a party he once helped found, has reshaped the internal political dynamics and reignited the ambitions of emerging presidential hopefuls such as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.

Sources within the PDP confirm that the ambitions of both governors are well-known to party stakeholders. As the party prepares for its crucial 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 24, issues around zoning, party unity, and the national convention will be central to discussions that may define the PDP’s strategy heading into 2027.

PDP Opens the Field as Zoning, Convention Dominate Talks

The recent exit of Atiku, who represented the PDP in the 2019 and 2023 presidential elections, is being seen by many within the party as an opportunity to reposition and regenerate. While Atiku cited irreconcilable differences and a deviation from the party’s founding principles, PDP insiders argue that his perennial ambition had long been a source of tension and division.

A senior PDP member remarked, “Atiku’s departure offers a fresh start. For years, his dominance in the race hindered others from fully expressing their political ambitions. With him out of the picture, there is now space for a new generation of credible leaders like Makinde and Bala Mohammed.”

The upcoming NEC meeting is expected to set the tone for how the party navigates the twin issues of zoning and convention planning. While leaders like Chief Bode George and Deputy Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor are advocating for a southern presidential candidate, other influential voices within the party suggest throwing the ticket open to all regions to ensure the emergence of the most competent candidate.

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Makinde and Bala Mohammed: Frontline Contenders Emerge

Though neither Governor Makinde nor Governor Bala Mohammed has publicly declared an interest in the 2027 race, activities within the party, including grassroots mobilization and closed-door consultations, indicate strong presidential ambitions from both men.

A pro-Bala group, the Bala Mohammed Vanguard, has already begun campaigning for his candidacy. The group’s Director of Media and Publicity, Mudaddasir Musa, confirmed that Governor Bala “will aspire for the Presidency” and praised his track record as FCT minister and current Bauchi governor.

Similarly, Makinde has garnered praise for his governance in Oyo State and is increasingly seen as a credible Southern alternative. Deputy National Youth Leader Osadolor highlighted Makinde’s transformative efforts in Oyo, stating that he exemplifies the kind of leadership the PDP needs to present in 2027.

Diverse Opinions on Zoning Reflect PDP’s Internal Democracy

One of the most contentious topics ahead of the 2027 elections remains the zoning of the presidential ticket. While zoning has historically helped balance power among Nigeria’s regions, many now believe that it should be replaced by merit-based competition.

A top NEC source told The PUNCH, “Zoning is not enshrined in our constitution. We should be focused on finding the most competent candidate, not the most geographically suitable one.”

However, others like Chief Bode George argue that the South deserves a fair shot, especially since the North has produced the party’s last two presidential candidates. “The process of getting a southerner as presidential flagbearer is already underway,” George confirmed.

Former PDP National Vice Chairman (South West), Eddy Olafeso, called for a strategic approach rooted in “fairness, equity, and justice,” while former National Secretary Ibrahim Tsauri advised members not to preempt NEC decisions, reinforcing the party’s commitment to collective leadership.

Atiku and Others Form Opposition Coalition, but PDP Remains Resilient

Atiku’s exit is part of a broader realignment in Nigeria’s opposition landscape. He has joined forces with Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai, and others under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), forming a new political coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Despite this development, PDP leaders remain confident that the party retains its nationwide support base. Olafeso stated, “Just as Hiroshima and Nagasaki didn’t mark the end of Japan, Atiku’s exit doesn’t spell the end of PDP.”

Others, like Tsauri, argued that any PDP candidate will automatically gain national visibility due to the party’s popularity, stating, “PDP is still the most popular party in Nigeria.”

APC Reacts: ‘No Threat from PDP Candidates’

In response to the emerging opposition candidates, the APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed the PDP’s prospects in 2027. He downplayed the national relevance of aspirants like Makinde and Bala Mohammed, calling them “regional players” incapable of mounting a serious challenge to President Bola Tinubu.

“They are not people that can beat him under any level playing field,” Ibrahim said confidently.

As the PDP’s 101st NEC meeting draws near, the decisions taken will likely shape the party’s direction heading into 2027. With the field widening and new power centers forming, the party now stands at a critical juncture — one that will test its ability to evolve, reconcile internal divisions, and present a unified front capable of challenging the dominance of the APC in the next electoral cycle.