Why Abba Moro Believes Fielding Atiku in 2023 Was a PDP Mistake
1. Fielding Atiku as 2023 PDP Presidential Candidate Was a Mistake
Senator Moro conceded that the PDP’s decision to abandon its zoning principle by nominating Atiku, a Northern candidate, to succeed President Buhari (also from the North) was a serious error. According to him, this move was unpopular, led to internal resistance, and ultimately contributed significantly to the party’s defeat in the 2023 polls.
“In 2022, … we were going to put our best foot forward. Eventually … that decision backfired because people resisted the intention to get a northern candidate to succeed a northern president … Nigerians rejected the party’s decision.”
He added that the PDP has since reflected on this mistake and adjusted its strategy—hence the decision to zone the 2027 ticket to the South.
2. Choosing Ifeanyi Okowa as Atiku’s Running Mate—Another Strategic Misstep
Moro criticized the selection of former Delta governor Ifeanyi Okowa as Atiku’s vice-presidential running mate, calling it yet another error of judgment:
- He argued that Okowa failed to deliver his home state, a PDP stronghold, to the party.
- Okowa’s post-defeat remarks—expressing regret for accepting the VP slot—revealed a lack of commitment, Moro implied.
“His soul was not in the PDP. His soul was not in that election, and that is why we performed very miserably in Delta State.”
With hindsight, Moro emphasized that the party likely would have performed better had another Southern figure been chosen instead of Okowa.
Summary Snapshot
| Strategic Choice | Moro’s Assessment |
|---|---|
| Atiku as Northern PDP nominee | Broke zoning norm; was rejected by voters; viewed as primary mistake in 2023. |
| Okowa as Running Mate | Failed to mobilize Delta State; lacked commitment; viewed as serious miscalculation. |
Overall Implications
Senator Moro’s reflections mark a candid attempt by PDP leadership to own its past miscalculations. These insights reinforce the importance of:
- Adhering to zoning and consensus-building within the party.
- Choosing committed, dependable running mates who can help deliver key states—especially those considered strongholds.
- Learning from setbacks to refine future strategies, such as the shift toward a Southern nominee for 2027.
About the Author
