Recent revelations shed light on the intricate dynamics behind Peter Obi's departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Labour Party in anticipation of the 2023 presidential elections, unraveling a web of political tensions within the PDP.
The fissure within the PDP emerged following the announcement of Atiku Abubakar's intention to contest for the presidency once more, reigniting debates over the party's zoning arrangements. With Atiku's previous candidacy representing the northern region in the 2019 elections, calls for a shift to the southern region gained momentum among key PDP figures, citing the party's constitutional provisions.
Paul Ibe, media aide to Atiku Abubakar, provided fresh insights during an episode of the 'MIC ON PODCAST' hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, disclosing the pivotal role played by Nyesom Wike, the current FCT Minister, in influencing Obi's departure from the PDP.
Ibe revealed that Atiku, recognizing the significance of regional balance, expressed willingness to step aside from the presidential race if the party would zone the ticket to the southeast, Obi's home region. However, Wike's ambitions for the presidency altered the course of events, advocating for an open contest among the three southern sub-regions—southeast, southwest, and south-south—instead.
"Atiku Abubakar didn't in any way force Obi to exit from the party. There were factors...The person that we just spoke about...Wike, was also instrumental in the exit of Obi," Ibe elucidated. "Because Wike had promoted the zoning of the presidency to the south. Atiku Abubakar had said that he was prepared to get himself off the ticket if the party zones the ticket to the southeast."
The revelation underscores the intricate power play and personal ambitions shaping Nigeria's political landscape, as parties maneuver to position themselves for the upcoming electoral contest, amidst a backdrop of regional aspirations and party allegiances.
Wike was instrumental to the exit of Obi out of PDP - Paul Ibe
— MIC ON PODCAST (@Themiconshow) May 11, 2024
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