Senator Abba Moro, a leading figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Senate Minority Leader, has described the party’s decision to field Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections as a strategic error.
Speaking on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme, Moro admitted the party miscalculated by backing Atiku, who ultimately lost to Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Given how the election turned out and the clear message from the Nigerian people, it’s evident that fielding Atiku was a mistake,” Moro said.
“To lose such a crucial election in that manner is certainly something to regret.”
Atiku came second in the 2023 race, after which he left the PDP. Nearly two years on, he has not declared affiliation with any political party.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Moro revealed that the PDP is exploring the possibility of a political comeback for former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Moro confirmed that internal discussions are ongoing to convince both leaders to return to the party and possibly join the presidential race.
“I’m aware that some individuals are already engaging Peter Obi, telling him, ‘Come back home, there’s a good chance you’ll be our candidate,’” he said.
On Jonathan, who has remained largely absent from PDP political activities since his 2015 defeat to Muhammadu Buhari, Moro noted:
“Some people are reaching out to former President Jonathan, encouraging him to consider running. It’s not off the table—it’s a possibility.”
