Jerry Gana Asserts Peter Obi Is the Only Candidate Who Can Defeat All Northern Contenders Under PDP in 2027

 

Peter Obi’s potential return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could completely reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 presidential election, according to veteran politician and PDP stalwart, Professor Jerry Gana. Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time program, Gana strongly asserted that Obi stands a better chance of winning the presidency under the PDP platform, particularly in the northern region of Nigeria.

Gana, a former Minister of Information and a key architect of the PDP since its formation, did not mince words about Obi's popularity in the North. According to him, Obi would outshine any other contender from any political party if he contested under the PDP, citing the northern electorate's historical inclination toward justice and fairness.

Citing field data and political research, Gana emphasized the party’s reach and connection with voters across the country. He maintained that the PDP remains a formidable political force and is well-positioned to reclaim power if strategic decisions are taken early.

“The PDP is on the ground,” Gana declared during the broadcast. “I’m a researcher, and I don’t base my conclusions on speculation. I base them on public opinion and field work. From all indications, if Peter Obi returns to the PDP and contests for president, he will defeat any candidate in the North. This is because our people are fundamentally fair-minded and just.”

Rather than just offering glowing praise, Gana revealed that active efforts are underway to convince Obi to rejoin the party. A dedicated team, which he claims to lead, is engaged in discussions aimed at building consensus around the most viable presidential candidate for 2027. Gana acknowledged that while Obi remains an exceptional figure, the PDP is still evaluating all options and exploring other brilliant candidates.

“We are reaching out to Peter Obi,” he noted. “Because I’m leading a search team and we are combing through the possibilities. Peter is a very good option, but even he may not be the best. We are searching carefully.”

The 2023 general election saw Obi emerge as a third-force candidate under the Labour Party after a widely publicized exit from the PDP. His campaign captivated a large youth demographic and gained significant momentum, particularly in southern Nigeria. Despite finishing third in the election, his performance disrupted the traditional political dichotomy between the PDP and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Reflecting on Obi’s departure, Gana admitted the PDP missed a golden opportunity by not handling the situation more diplomatically. He openly critiqued the decisions made during the party’s primary process in 2022, suggesting that if Atiku Abubakar had opted to make Obi his running mate, the outcome of the election might have been different.

“We made a mistake in 2023,” Gana admitted. “If I were Atiku, I would have said, ‘Peter, it is now your turn; I’ll support you as vice president.’ But that did not happen.”

The elder statesman expressed optimism that the PDP is learning from past missteps and is undergoing an internal revival that could make it a more attractive platform for potential defectors and returning members alike. According to him, the party is gaining renewed traction with the Nigerian electorate, particularly because of what he described as its increasing relevance, authenticity, and groundedness.

“People are noticing that the PDP is becoming so good, fascinating, and real,” he said. “Some opponents may not even want to run against us because they can see that the party is regaining its credibility and strength.”

While political observers continue to debate the implications of a possible Obi-PDP reunion, Gana’s comments may serve as a signal of a broader movement within Nigeria’s opposition landscape. With 2027 still several political cycles away, his remarks will likely fuel speculation and intensify conversations about realignments, coalitions, and strategic moves ahead of the next national elections.

Whether Peter Obi will heed these calls and return to the PDP remains to be seen, but one thing is clear, his influence continues to echo throughout Nigeria’s political corridors.