PDP stalwart Prof. Jerry Gana ignited controversy by declaring that Peter Obi would sweep northern states if he returned to the Peoples Democratic Party. Now whispers of political scheming and secret alliances swirl—could Obi’s return be part of a shadow power play to reclaim Nigeria’s north?
Gana, speaking on Arise TV’s Prime Time this Wednesday, asserted:
“In the northern states, Peter Obi under the PDP will defeat any candidate, because our people are very fair‑minded.”
Gana, who served under President Obasanjo and remains influential within PDP circles, insists Obi’s northward appeal is real if he wears PDP’s ticket.
Coalition Drama & Obi Denial
Obi left PDP in May 2022 to lead the Labour Party, but speculation of his return persists. Yet his media team insists:
“Neither of [the] two purported statements originated from Obi or his media office.”
Obi maintains focus on a coalition built via ADC and LP—not returning to PDP.
Secret Deal or Power Grab?
- Some insiders suggest Gana’s flattering prediction is more than wishful thinking—it’s part of backroom negotiations. Could Obi be preparing to helm the PDP ticket in 2027, sidelining big names like Atiku or Amaechi?
- The PDP’s north control has weakened since 2023. If Obi switches sides, he brings his southeast base plus new northern votes—a potent electoral jackpot.
- Internal coalition whispers speak of Obi meetings with PDP governors behind closed doors—maybe more than just friendly consultation.
Reality Check: What 2023 Votes Say
Obi’s Labour Party didn’t dominate the north in 2023. His strongest showing was in Adamawa and Kaduna, but he lagged in states like Kano and Sokoto.
Despite online support, many say he lacks true northern grassroots strength—raising doubts about Gana’s sweeping claim.
Is Gana just optimistic—or is he signalling something deeper? A veiled alliance to bring Obi back into PDP? A play to capture both southern and northern votes under a single banner?
Confirmation on Obi’s stance via official channels, details about private talks with PDP governors, and clarity on whether polling-unit structures will shift if he returns would prove whether this is mere speculation—or a real power plot in motion.
