Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to support the Labour Party’s presidential flag bearer, Peter Obi in 2027 if the PDP decides to zone its presidential ticket to the South-East.
The former Vice President said he would support Obi if the LP candidate decides to pick the PDP ticket.
Atiku who spoke in an interview with BBC Hausa Service, explained that he joined the 2023 presidential race because his party, the PDP did not zone its ticket to any regions.
He said: “I have said repeatedly and I even said it before the 2023 general elections that if the PDP decides to zone the presidential ticket to the South or South-East specifically, I won’t contest it.”
“As long as it’s the decision of the party, I will abide by it. But I contested the 2023 presidential ticket because it was thrown open to all members of the party.
“If the party decides that it’s the turn of the South-East and Peter Obi is chosen, I won’t hesitate to support him,” he added.
Atiku confirmed possible merger between the PDP and Labour Party ahead of 2027, saying that members of the party would take decision on that.
On whether Obi’s recent surprise visit signaled possible alliance, Atiku said it was a normal friendly visit.
“It’s just a normal friendly meeting that we often have, particularly among us in the opposition parties. Such meetings are healthy for Nigeria’s democracy and in the country’s interest.”
On the merger possibility, Atiku said, “Yes, it’s very much possible. We can merge to achieve a common goal. So, it’s possible, and nothing can stop it if we wish to achieve that.”
He said he would not keep quiet over political developments in the country.
“Yes, we can’t keep quiet and watch things go wrong. People are suffering and we are committed to making Nigeria a better place.
“It means you are not tired of politics of Nigeria? Not at all. I am still in active politics in Nigeria, at least, as long as God permits.
“My age doesn’t stop the young ones from testing their fate. Everybody, irrespective of age, is allowed to aspire to be anybody in the society, politically or otherwise.”
Ikengaonline reports that Obi was Atiku’s running mate in 2019 but emerged LP flag bearer in 2023 after decamping from the PDP.
