As political alignments begin to take shape ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Sowunmi, has called on former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return to the PDP. Sowunmi, who served as the spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar’s 2019 presidential campaign, made the appeal during an appearance on Seun Okinbaloye’s ‘Mic On Podcast’
Segun Sowunmi emphasized that the PDP is preparing to open its internal processes to all aspirants, noting that it will announce the sale of nomination forms in due course. According to him, Obi stands a stronger chance of securing victory in the 2027 presidential race if he returns to the PDP, a party with a wide-reaching political structure and historical influence.
Historical Ties and the South-East Agenda
In his remarks, Segun Sowunmi highlighted the historical roots of the PDP, pointing out that the party was originally conceived in the bedroom of the late Alex Ekwueme, a respected Igbo leader and former Vice President of Nigeria. He questioned why leaders from the South-East and other regions could not unite within the PDP to offer the presidential ticket to Obi, given his growing popularity and political clout.
“Why can’t the Igbo, along with southern leaders and other influential figures within the PDP, come together and say, ‘Alright, we recognize this – here’s the ticket’?” Sowunmi queried. He stressed that Obi’s return could energize the PDP’s base in the South-East and beyond, creating a formidable coalition capable of challenging the ruling party in 2027.
Amplifying Obi’s Political Strength with PDP’s Machinery
Segun Sowunmi further argued that Obi’s impressive performance in the 2023 presidential election—where he secured over six million votes without the backing of incumbent governors or a robust party machinery—demonstrated his significant political appeal. However, he contended that with the PDP’s established structures, Obi’s influence could be even greater.
He asserted that a combination of Obi’s organic support and the PDP’s nationwide reach would make him an unstoppable force. “If his numbers and the animated energy that is following him were to follow him into the PDP and he is the presidential candidate, I can guarantee you he would take the South-East, South-South, the Christian North, and North Central,” Segun Sowunmi said confidently.
No Active Negotiations Between Obi and PDP — Segun Sowunmi
Despite his passionate plea, Segun Sowunmi made it clear that his suggestions were purely hypothetical and should not be interpreted as evidence of ongoing discussions between Peter Obi and the PDP. He emphasized that Obi remains free to chart his political course and make decisions he deems best for his aspirations and supporters.
“There are no negotiations as far as I am aware. These are just my views on what would be strategic, not an indication of any backroom dealings,” he stated. Segun Sowunmi’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within some PDP circles that reuniting with popular figures like Obi could be crucial to the party’s chances in the next presidential election.
What Lies Ahead for Obi and the PDP
The call for Peter Obi’s return adds a new dimension to the evolving political landscape ahead of 2027. With Nigeria’s electorate becoming increasingly dynamic, alliances and strategic recalibrations are expected to play a major role in determining electoral outcomes.
Whether Obi considers Segun Sowunmi’s suggestion remains to be seen. For now, the Labour Party leader continues to build his political movement, but as the race toward 2027 heats up, the possibility of new alignments—and perhaps old reunions—cannot be ruled out.
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