Tension Rise In PDP As Atiku, Bala, And Makinde’s Presidential Ambitions Threaten Reconciliation Efforts

Concerns are mounting within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the personal ambitions of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde risk deepening the party’s ongoing internal crisis.

The PDP has been embroiled in factional conflicts, with Atiku and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, leading opposing camps.

Now, with Bala Mohammed’s recent indication of interest in the 2027 presidential race, the rift appears poised to widen.

Bala Mohammed, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, has recently allied with other influential party members who have called for the replacement of the party’s National Chairman, Umar Damagum, a move signalling discontent within the party’s leadership structure.

In a recent public appearance, the Bauchi State governor expressed willingness to step aside from his presidential aspirations if former President, Goodluck Jonathan agreed to return to the PDP and run for office in 2027.

At a recent event by Save Africa Initiative, a Non-Governmental Organisation, in Abuja, Mohammed suggested that Jonathan’s experience was what Nigeria needed, citing widespread discontent with President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He opined that Jonathan could help revive the nation’s economy, offering a path toward stability and development.

Despite Mohammed’s overtures, Jonathan’s camp has remained silent on the proposition, fueling speculation that the former president may not be interested in a political comeback.

Meanwhile, the party’s reconciliation efforts, led by former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, are reportedly under strain due to these emerging power struggles.

According to Punch, PDP, which has seen its influence wane significantly following its defeat in the 2023 elections, faces a pivotal moment as it works to maintain unity and reestablish itself as a formidable opposition.

Party members and observers alike are watching closely to see if the Oyinlola-led committee can navigate these tensions and prevent further fracturing within the PDP’s ranks ahead of the 2027 elections.