Just In: PDP to adopt Tinubu as presidential Candidate
As the 2027 general election approaches, Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing growing realignments and strategic consultations across party lines.
A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is reportedly positioning itself to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid rather than present a presidential candidate from within the opposition party, according to investigations by BusinessDay’s political desk.
Wike, a prominent PDP figure serving in the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration, has openly declared his support for Tinubu’s second-term ambition. He has also ruled out any personal presidential ambition in 2027, while indicating continued support for Tinubu beyond the next election cycle.
Sources within the Wike-aligned PDP faction said moves are underway to reorganise party structures in line with this political direction. This includes the formation of a “Rainbow Coalition” in Rivers State, bringing together members of both the PDP and APC to mobilise support for Tinubu.
The faction has also reportedly fixed its internal primary elections for May 25, 2027, with plans to field candidates aligned with its leadership direction and political interests. The move is seen as part of a broader strategy to consolidate influence within the party and counter rival PDP blocs ahead of the general election.
The development has deepened internal tensions within the PDP. Several party leaders, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, have distanced themselves from the move, insisting that while individuals are free to choose their political alignments, the party will not support President Tinubu in 2027.
According to party insiders, the Wike-aligned bloc is attempting to maintain control of key party structures while reducing the capacity of opposing factions to mount a strong presidential challenge in 2027. The group is also said to be engaged in ongoing legal disputes over party leadership and electoral processes.
Meanwhile, political consultations and alliance-building efforts in support of Tinubu’s second-term ambition are reportedly gaining traction in several states.
In Benue State, a strategic meeting was held at the residence of former Governor Samuel Ortom, a senior PDP figure, involving stakeholders aligned with both the PDP and APC factions loyal to Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Those present included Mathias Byuan, Michael Kaase Aondokaa, Pius Akutah, Jeffrey Kuraun, and Sebastian Hon, among others.
However, the APC faction loyal to Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has distanced itself from the meeting.
In a statement, the party’s state publicity secretary, Daniel Ihomun, said the APC remains committed to mobilising support for President Tinubu and the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” while clarifying that members are free to attend stakeholder engagements with any group.
He added that the party would continue to encourage broad-based political support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
In Osun and Ogun states, some PDP leaders have previously expressed support for Tinubu’s re-election bid, describing him as a “son of the soil,” while remaining members of the opposition party.
In Ekiti State, prominent PDP figures, including former Governor Ayo Fayose, have also endorsed Tinubu’s 2027 ambition while maintaining their party membership and continuing to support the state government led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Source: Business Day