A political group within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), known as the Concerned PDP League (CPDPL), has advised Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, not to run again in 2027.
The group, in a statement from its National Secretary, Tasiu Muhammed, and acting National Director of Publicity and Strategic Communication, Gbenga Adedamola, also urged Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, the Chairman of PDP Governors Forum, to refrain from aspiring to the presidency until 2031.
The group emphasized the need for aspirants from the North to recognize that the South has an eight-year term before the power shifts back to the North in 2031. The stated goal of this advice is to promote stability in the country’s political system.
Highlighting the challenges faced by PDP in the 2023 general election, the CPDPL pointed to the failure to adhere to the party’s constitution and leadership shortcomings.
They also expressed concern about members defecting with the party’s mandate to other political parties, with courts allegedly transferring votes to other parties.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general election, the group urged PDP members and leaders to make sacrifices, such as withdrawing court cases, resolving grudges, and putting aside personal interests for the unity of the party.
They stressed the importance of defeating the All Progressive Congress (APC) in future elections for the benefit of Nigerians.
While expressing support for a Southern candidate in the 2027 presidential election, the CPDPL criticized statements from former Benue governor Samuel Ortom, who declared support for President Bola Tinubu’s undeclared ambition for 2027.
The group condemned actions by past and current governors of Rivers State, expressing disappointment in their failure to acknowledge the party’s role and calling for clarity on their intentions.
Regarding Rivers Assembly members defecting to the APC, the CPDPL insisted that their seats remain vacant, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections within the stipulated period to ensure proper representation for the affected constituencies.
In conclusion, the group congratulated PDP governors and their counterparts in the opposition who won Supreme Court judgments. They commended the Supreme Court justices for protecting people’s votes and choices.
The CPDPL acknowledged the efforts of the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) under the leadership of Acting National Chairman Alhaji Umar Damagum, and praised other leaders and members contributing to the unity and progress of the party.
