Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar notably boycotted the crucial meeting of the North East zonal caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi on Thursday, January 30, 2025. The gathering was aimed at discussing strategies for the 2027 elections and addressing internal party conflicts.
The meeting was attended by key PDP leaders from the North East region, including three state governors: Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, and Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. Also present were members of the PDP Reconciliation Committee, led by former National Secretary Olagunsoye Oyinlola, as well as senators, House of Representatives members, and state assembly members from the region.
While many prominent figures who could not attend sent representatives, Atiku was absent without sending a representative, which raised questions about his involvement in the party’s internal efforts.
The meeting focused on preparing for the upcoming PDP Zonal and National Conventions and resolving disputes within the party to strengthen its position as the main opposition. PDP’s acting national chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilya Damagun, urged members to put aside personal differences for the greater good of the party.
“Interest is paramount. We are all in politics for various reasons, but the most important thing is that you can only achieve your goals when your political vehicle is strong enough to take you to your destination,” Damagun said, emphasizing that the party is greater than any individual.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who is also the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, suggested a swap of party positions across states in the region to promote unity, encouraging the idea of shifting party roles between states like Gombe, Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and Taraba.
“We need to minimize conflicts and reintegrate former members. This can help foster unity,” Mohammed said.
The leader of the PDP’s Reconciliation Committee, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to resolving internal issues and rebuilding the party ahead of the 2027 elections. He stressed the importance of unity for the PDP to effectively challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adamawa State Governor Fintiri, whose state is a stronghold for the party, echoed the sentiments, calling for collective efforts to address the party’s internal crises and regain leadership in 2027.
With Atiku’s absence, the party’s path toward reconciliation appears uncertain, but party leaders remain focused on rebuilding and strengthening the PDP for the future.
