In a surprising political development that could reshape Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race, former Borno State Governor and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, has revealed that former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, is set to return to the PDP.
Sheriff made the revelation during a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, stating that high-level consultations have been ongoing between PDP stakeholders and Peter Obi’s camp. According to him, the return of Obi to the PDP is part of a broader strategy to present a united opposition front capable of reclaiming power in 2027.
"Peter Obi is a critical figure in the political landscape today. He is widely accepted across the country, especially among the youth and middle class. His return to the PDP is not just likely — it is imminent," Sheriff stated. “There is a strong consensus within the party that he stands the best chance to defeat the APC in the next presidential election. And I can tell you authoritatively, he is going to get the presidential ticket.”
Peter Obi, who left the PDP in 2022 to contest the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, garnered over 6 million votes, coming third in a tightly contested race. His campaign was powered by a nationwide youth movement and calls for a new style of leadership driven by transparency, accountability, and economic reform.
While Mr. Obi has not officially commented on the statement made by Senator Sheriff, close aides have hinted in recent weeks at growing dissatisfaction with the Labour Party’s internal wranglings and structural limitations ahead of the 2027 race.
Political analysts say Obi’s potential return to the PDP could trigger major realignments ahead of the next general elections, especially among centrist voters and those disenchanted with the current administration.
The PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) has yet to release an official statement in response to Sheriff’s claims. However, several prominent PDP governors and former presidential aspirants have reportedly expressed support for Obi’s return and possible candidacy.
If confirmed, this development would mark a dramatic comeback for the former vice-presidential candidate under the PDP in 2019, signaling a possible unification of Nigeria’s fragmented opposition as the race for 2027 gathers momentum.