A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Sowunmi, has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to learn from President Bola Tinubu’s approach to coalition-building, rather than attempting to form a new political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview on Tuesday, Sowunmi, a longtime ally and former campaign spokesperson for Atiku, expressed concern over ongoing efforts by opposition leaders to establish a new coalition or political party to challenge Tinubu’s administration. He argued that such efforts should instead be anchored within the PDP.
“People love with their hearts. I love Atiku with my bones. But I can’t help him against himself,” Sowunmi said. “You can’t run for vice presidency twice on the PDP platform, get the party’s presidential ticket twice, and now think the next best thing is to start shopping for a new platform. If you want a coalition, coalesce them into your party.”
The PDP has faced internal crises in recent years, and some opposition figures—led by Atiku—have formed a committee involving Rotimi Amaechi and Liyel Imoke to deliberate on creating a new political vehicle. However, Sowunmi believes that abandoning the PDP could prove counterproductive.
He pointed to President Tinubu’s political strategy as a model, noting how the president has built successful coalitions while maintaining loyalty to his political base.
“Look at your rival, your friend. You guys started together,” Sowunmi said. “Even if he’s building a coalition, is he not coalescing opponents into his place?”
Sowunmi also praised Tinubu’s political skills, describing him as a master strategist capable of making political allies and opponents alike feel valued.
“That guy (Tinubu) is something oh,” he remarked. “He has this uncanny ability to make everybody individually feel special… whether you are a former foe or a friend, you leave feeling like you matter.”
His comments come amid growing speculation about his political alignment, especially after a recent meeting with Tinubu. Addressing concerns about whether Atiku was upset by his remarks or actions, Sowunmi said, “I don’t know whether Atiku is upset or not upset, but I know a lot of our followers are talking nonsense. I’ve been in the PDP since 1999 without leaving.”
As the 2027 elections approach, the conversation around opposition unity and strategy is gaining momentum, with Sowunmi’s remarks likely to spark further debate within the PDP.
