LIVE UPDATES
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party's presidential candidate for the 2023 election, Peter Obi, are reportedly set to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
In a disclosure made during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Adewole Adebayo, the SDP’s presidential candidate, revealed that following former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s departure from the ruling All Progressives Congress to the SDP, many others are likely to follow suit.
Adebayo stated, “People are joining my party, and we are receiving them warmly. You can see how proactive I am in this welcoming process. However, we need to address the challenge of changing the culture where rules are not strictly observed.”
He mentioned that both El-Rufai, Atiku Abubakar, and even former Governor Peter Obi are expected to join, with many more individuals showing interest. “Until someone officially joins, we can't confirm their membership. However, people have informed me, as well as the SDP's financial secretary, that discussions are underway. We are open to all who wish to join.”
He urged new members to adhere to the party's regulations and to ensure a fair emergence of candidates without any form of dishonesty or criminal activity, much like the party's 2022 convention which was devoid of legal disputes or controversies. “If they can adhere to our principles and follow the SDP's processes, we will successfully challenge the APC and send President Tinubu back to Lagos or wherever he chooses in Nigeria.”
In response to Adebayo’s remarks, Yunusa Tanko, interim national coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, and Paul Ibe, spokesperson for Mr. Abubakar, asserted that their leaders have no intention to switch to the SDP.
“As I speak, Atiku Abubakar remains a member of the PDP and will continue to do so,” Ibe stated to Peoples Gazette. “Any rumors suggesting otherwise are unfamiliar to us. I can also confirm that His Excellency has initiated a coalition with leaders and stakeholders from various parties.”
Similarly, Yunusa, during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, stated, “From my perspective, His Excellency, Peter Obi, is still a member of the Labour Party. That remains until any new developments arise.” He also shared that Labour Party leaders will convene this week to clarify fundamental positions in line with the Supreme Court's ruling, which will settle the matter conclusively.
