A prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain has issued a stark warning about the party's future if former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is nominated as its presidential candidate in 2027.
Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, a former PDP presidential aspirant and ex-President of the World Igbo Congress, cautioned that the party would lose its remaining states if it fields Atiku in the next presidential election.
Speaking in Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, where he was recently appointed as Regent following the passing of the town's traditional ruler, Anakwenze did not mince words about Atiku's influence on the party.
"I belong to PDP. PDP has problems because people like Atiku do not want it to succeed. He is one of those holding the party down," Anakwenze stated.
The PDP chieftain emphasized the need for fresh leadership with innovative ideas capable of outperforming the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He lamented that despite Nigeria's abundant resources, the country remains underdeveloped due to poor leadership.
"The smartest people in Nigeria have not ruled the country, and that is why we are losing on all fronts," he added.
Anakwenze further condemned the concentration of power among individuals who prioritize ethnicity and religion over national interest, making a controversial claim that "in Nigeria, only people who are supposed to be in prison are the ones calling the shots."
The former presidential aspirant's comments come at a time when political parties are beginning early preparations for the 2027 general elections, with speculation mounting about potential candidates.
Anakwenze was appointed as the Regent of Abagana following the passing of the town's traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Igwe Patrick Mbamalu Okeke.
