Peter Obi’s Allies Approach SDP as 2027 Presidential Race Heats Up

As the 2027 presidential election draws closer, political realignments are gaining momentum, with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) emerging as a key destination for aspirants and defectors.

The National Secretary of Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dr. Olu Agunloye, has revealed that seven presidential aspirants are already jostling for the SDP ticket, with more expected to join.

Agunloye also disclosed that loyalists of Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, have approached the SDP to explore the possibility of his joining the party. While Obi has yet to officially declare his intention, his associates are reportedly laying the groundwork for his potential defection.

“Obi’s people came to us to ask if we would accept him if he joined. We said yes,” Agunloye stated during an appearance on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a Channels Television programme. He emphasised, however, that Obi or his supporters must formally join the SDP to be considered.

The SDP’s growing appeal comes amid widespread rumours of people leaving the APC and internal crises plaguing major opposition parties like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party.

Agunloye confirmed that, apart from former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai who defected to the SDP, other high-profile politicians have already joined the party, boosting its membership and visibility.

“El-Rufai’s entry has attracted many others. We welcome them, but they must respect our existing structures,” Agunloye said, adding that the party has a presence in all 774 local government areas across Nigeria.

The SDP’s leadership is also navigating the delicate task of managing the interests of prominent figures like Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and El-Rufai, who may seek the party’s presidential ticket. Agunloye stressed the need for unity and strategic planning to avoid internal conflicts.

“If Peter Obi, Atiku, El-Rufai, and others join, we must find a balance. Our goal is to strengthen the party and present a formidable candidate for 2027,” he said.