Title: South South PDP Chief Addresses Potential Exit of Atiku Abubakar: "PDP Will Survive!"
PDP's Existence Remains Unchanged Regardless of Atiku's Departure - Ogidi
In the latest buzz, the South South Caretaker Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Emma Ogidi, has shared that the party would be deeply affected by the potential departure of former presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. As per our sources, Ogidi revealed that Atiku played a crucial mentorship role for him and other party stakeholders, making his potential exit a cause for concern.
During an interview with Vanguard, Ogidi expressed hope that the PDP would persevere, even if Atiku chooses to leave. He stated, "It is worrisome that beneficiaries are leaving, but I'd be really worried if Atiku Abubakurk leaves because he mentored many of us. I should be worried, but one thing I know and have at the back of my mind is that PDP will not die. I strongly believe it." Ogidi added, "Human beings make up the party, and sometimes, as they leave, others will come."
Speaking about coalition strategies, Ogidi expressed the need for the party to focus on regaining its internal strength. "We are busy right now putting the house together. Our walls are cracking, and we want to renovate the house. You have to go wherever you want to go with a strong foundation. When you go with a shaky foundation, you lose in the negotiations," he said. He further noted that the PDP's factional cracks would be addressed during the upcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, at which time a decision on coalition efforts would be made.
Recent developments within the PDP suggest internal debates about Atiku's potential 2027 presidential bid. Leading party figures, such as Chief Bode George and Rep. Tajudeen Yusuf, have voiced their opposition to Atiku's candidacy, emphasizing the need to prioritize southern candidates to restore unity within the party[1][5]. Furthermore, the departure of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his deputy to the APC in April 2025 has weakened the South-South's influence but created urgency for the PDP to address structural issues at the upcoming NEC meeting[2].
Key priorities for the upcoming NEC meeting are expected to include zoning reinforcement, coalition strategy, and leadership reforms. Advocates like Yusuf aim to formalize a southern presidential candidate for 2027, leveraging the South-South’s historical support base[2][4]. Additionally, the NEC may seek clearer guidelines on collaboration with external groups in light of Atiku's cross-party alliance with Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai, which has faced resistance from PDP governors[1][5]. The South-South Zonal Working Committee’s recent caretaker appointments may inform broader NEC decisions, signaling restructuring efforts to stabilize the region.
The PDP's ability to reconcile internal dissent and reaffirm its zoning framework will be crucial to its viability in the South-South and beyond. If you're eager for more news on PDP dynamics, don't miss the latest updates on rumored negotiations with APC and Atiku Abubakar's potential role in fostering unity within the party. Stay tuned!
[1] 'It Is Ridiculous To Suggest I Am The Problem In PDP' - Atiku[2] Mbah, Adeleke, Alex Otti, Others Shelve Defection Plans As Opposition Reconsiders Move To APC[3] 'Atiku Holds The Key To Restoring Unity In PDP' - Party Chieftains Declare[4] 2027: Wike Meets PDP Governors, Agrees To Make Concessions To Foster Unity Within Party[5] Defections: As More People Crowd APC, It Will Either Sink Or Capsize - PDP Chieftain
- The South South Caretaker Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Emma Ogidi, has suggested that the party is facing a challenging period with the potential departure of Atiku Abubakar, who he considers a mentor.
- Ogidi believes that the PDP can overcome this hurdle, stating that the party will not die and that new members will emerge.
- As the PDP prepares for its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, key priorities include zoning reinforcement, coalition strategy, and leadership reforms.
- It has been reported that leading party figures are advocating for a southern candidate for the 2027 presidential bid to restore unity within the party.
- The departure of the Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his deputy to the APC in April 2025 has weakened the South-South's influence but has also created a sense of urgency for the PDP to address structural issues.
- In light of Atiku's cross-party alliance with Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai, the NEC may seek clearer guidelines on collaboration with external groups, which has faced resistance from PDP governors.
