PDP Does Not Need Merger for 2027 Elections, Says Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse

Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse, a chieftain of the People Democratic Party (PDP) and former member of Atiku Abubakar 2023 Presidential Campaign Council, has dismissed the need for any merger with other political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lagos, Pearse emphasized that the PDP is not in need of a merger but rather should focus on strengthening its internal structures to secure victory in future elections.

“PDP cannot be running away. Let us forget merger. Are you talking about PDP merging with some of these political parties which do not have offices? We should look inward, reposition ourselves and improve the party, that is what we need to do,” Pearse stated.

He further highlighted the strength of the PDP, noting that with 13 governors and 40% representation in the National Assembly, the party is well-positioned to succeed without merging with any other party.

Regarding the outcome of the 2023 presidential election, Pearse attributed the defeat of PDP’s candidate, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, to his failure to reconcile with key figures within the party, particularly ex-Rivers governor, Nyesom Wike.

“It was Atiku that failed to do his job. He didn’t do what he needed to do.

He should not have fought against Wike, even if he didn’t want to use him as his vice, he could have promised to make him minister of petroleum.

Wike will do the work and release money to prosecute the election and ensure victory for the party. He didn’t do it,” Pearse commented.

While some politicians and analysts have advocated for a merger of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections, Pearse’s remarks underscore a different perspective within the PDP leadership, emphasizing the party’s internal strength and potential for success in future electoral contests.