In a recent interview with The Sun, Former lawmaker Tajudeen Yusuf, who represented Kabba/Bunu Ijumu Federal Constituency in the Ninth Assembly, expressed strong concerns regarding Peter Obi’s potential 2027 presidential campaign. Yusuf cautioned the Labour Party presidential candidate from the 2023 election about aligning his ambitions with Atiku Abubakar’s support, indicating that such a move could be detrimental to Obi. Yusuf’s insights suggest that Obi’s departure from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) after 2019 was driven by substantial, undisclosed reasons, despite public speculation.
Yusuf emphasized the importance of sincerity within political strategies and questioned the authenticity of Atiku Abubakar’s recent statements regarding the PDP’s role in determining its presidential candidate. He highlighted that Obi, no longer a member of the PDP, should be wary of such claims. Yusuf asserted that political maneuvering and mind games are at play as the 2027 elections approach, suggesting that Atiku’s remarks may be part of a broader strategy orchestrated by his campaign team. He urged the public to be cautious and critical of these statements, recognizing them as potential marketing tactics rather than genuine political discourse.
Addressing the state of the PDP, Yusuf argued that the party’s path to regaining power lies in rectifying the perceived injustices of 2015 by shifting power back to the South. He stressed that acknowledging and addressing this imbalance is crucial for the PDP’s credibility and success in future elections. Yusuf’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within the party that strategic realignments and genuine reconciliation are necessary for political rejuvenation.
Yusuf also critiqued President Bola Tinubu’s first year in office, rating his performance as below average. He attributed this assessment primarily to the administration’s controversial policy on fuel subsidy removal, which has been a significant point of contention. Yusuf’s analysis underscores the complexities and challenges faced by the current administration, highlighting the need for more effective and considerate policy decisions to address the nation’s pressing issues.
He said: If he takes him seriously, it is at his own peril. I might be wrong, but Obi knows why he left PDP, forget about all what people are saying. I’m aware of what happened after 2019. And don’t forget that in the same breath, Atiku said PDP will determine. So PDP will determine on Obi who is no longer in PDP? No, let’s be sincere with ourselves. See, it is a mind game. 2027 is coming and so this is marketing strategy. So, gullible people listening to him will say, aha! This man would have buried his ambition if this had happened. I don’t believe it is coming from him, but I believe his strategists are the ones coming up with those things for him to say. See, the last NEC meeting of the PDP, people thought it was about the national chairman, it’s a lie from the pit of hell.