“Bauchi Hosts Key PDP Leaders for Strategic Talks Ahead of 2027 Elections, Atiku Absent”

The absence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar marked a notable moment at the recent North East zonal caucus meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi, which focused on reconciliation and strategies for the party’s future, particularly with the 2027 elections in mind.

The meeting, held on Thursday, saw the participation of the three PDP governors from the region: Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, and Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

Alongside them were members of the PDP Reconciliation Committee, led by former National Secretary Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and several senators, House of Representatives members, and state assembly members from the zone. Although other prominent party figures sent representatives, Atiku was notably absent, leading to speculation about his absence from the high-profile meeting.

The gathering centered on important issues, including the upcoming PDP Zonal and National Conventions, and the need to resolve internal conflicts to strengthen the party ahead of its opposition role in the next electoral cycle.

Acting national chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Umar Ilya Damagun, addressed the gathering by urging leaders to prioritize party unity above personal interests. He emphasized that the party’s strength was vital for the success of its members’ individual political goals. “Interest is paramount, but you can only achieve your goals when your political vehicle is strong enough to take you to your destination,” he stated.

Damagun further reassured the members of his leadership’s commitment to supporting the party’s interests, saying, “Nobody is above the party. We will support and acknowledge our members, but if you go against the party’s interests, we will part ways with you.”

Governor Bala Mohammed, as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, stressed the importance of reconciliation within the party. To promote unity, he proposed a reshuffling of party positions across different states, suggesting that positions in states like Gombe, Borno, and Adamawa be swapped to foster inclusiveness and minimize conflicts.

The governor, along with other key PDP leaders from the region, assured that they would work together to reintegrate former members and keep the party united. He also reaffirmed that the North-East zone was committed to supporting the PDP’s national goals.

The leader of the Reconciliation Committee, Oyinlola, reinforced the committee’s mission of rebuilding the party and strengthening its position for the 2027 general elections. “Our mission is to reach out to aggrieved members and mend broken relationships within the party. We believe that if all members set aside their differences, PDP can reclaim power in 2027,” he said.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri echoed Oyinlola’s sentiments, stressing that the party’s return to leadership would depend on collective efforts and unity. He urged all members to embrace reconciliation and assured the committee of the governors’ full support in the reconciliation process.

As PDP looks toward 2027, the meeting in Bauchi provided an opportunity for the party to regroup, address internal challenges, and set a unified course forward. However, Atiku’s absence has left room for speculation about the internal dynamics and future trajectory of the party.