ABUJA — In a major political realignment within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), senior chieftain Chief Dan Ulasi has formally declared that he will not follow the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027.
Instead, Ulasi announced that he will align his political backing with the former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing Obi as the most viable candidate capable of defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general election.
The public stance marks a significant rift between Chief Ulasi and Wike’s political camp, of which Ulasi had long been considered a key ally and vocal defender.
Key Highlights of Dan Ulasi’s Declaration
Speaking on political affairs and opposition strategy ahead of the 2027 election cycle, Chief Ulasi outlined several reasons for his divergence from Wike’s pro-Tinubu stance:
- Break from Wike’s Pro-Tinubu Alignment: Ulasi stated that while he maintains personal respect for Nyesom Wike, he cannot support a PDP chieftain serving as a “national leader” of the opposition while openly campaigning for the incumbent APC administration.
- Backing for Peter Obi: Describing Peter Obi as a leader of unquestionable integrity and credibility, Ulasi asserted that Obi remains the opposition’s strongest asset to challenge the ruling party.
- Push for South-East Power Rotation: Ulasi emphasized that fairness and equity dictate that the presidency be micro-zoned to the South-East, arguing that any major opposition platform aligning with Peter Obi secures an immediate political advantage nationwide.
“Unconstructive” for PDP Leaders to Support Incumbent
Addressing the internal crisis and ideological confusion plaguing the opposition, Chief Ulasi criticized PDP leaders who pledge allegiance to President Tinubu while remaining in opposition ranks.
Wike's Position: Serves in Tinubu's Cabinet (FCT Minister); backs APC for 2027.
Dan Ulasi's Stance: Rejects pro-Tinubu endorsement; pledges backing for Peter Obi.
Opposition Dilemma: PDP struggles with internal division ahead of coalition talks.
“You cannot be a leader of a national party that hasn’t held its primaries, with no candidate yet emerged, and say you’re supporting the incumbent… Only Peter Obi can defeat Tinubu in 2027,” Ulasi asserted, adding that political realignment is essential if the opposition hopes to present a credible front.
Strategic Implications for 2027 Alliances
Dan Ulasi’s declaration adds momentum to ongoing discussions regarding potential mergers, coalitions, and realignments among key political figures—including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso—as the opposition seeks to build a formidable coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.
With influential PDP elders beginning to publicly break rank with Wike over his endorsement of the APC-led administration, the battle for control and political direction within the PDP is expected to intensify over the coming months.
