A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former member of Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 Presidential Campaign Committee, Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse, has called on the party to ensure that a southerner emerges as its presidential candidate in 2027.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday, Pearse argued that presenting a northern candidate in the next presidential election would not be in the party’s best interest.
“The national opinion now is that the PDP should field a southerner for president in 2027.
Nigerians believe this would complete the eight years of southern presidency and help rescue the nation,” Pearse said.
Pearse dismissed the need for any merger between the PDP and other political parties, such as the Labour Party (LP) or the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
According to him, political alliances in Nigeria are rarely successful due to competing interests.
“The PDP does not need an alliance to win. We have 12 governors and 40% of the National Assembly.
If we strengthen our party, reconcile with members who left, and field a southern candidate, we will win,” he stated.
Pearse attributed PDP’s loss in the 2023 elections to internal division over zoning, stressing the need for unity and adherence to constitutional provisions.
He criticized the failure of the party’s former National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, to step down after a northern presidential candidate emerged, which he said led to a divided house.
“We are not going to allow such mistakes again. This time, we must work together and ensure victory in 2027,” Pearse concluded.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate