As the battle for the 2023 presidential election draws closer, Nigerians are keenly awaiting not just who becomes the next president but anxiously waiting, with hands-on their cheek on the possibility of the opposition party Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) snatching power from the All-Progressive Congress (APC). It will not be an easy task for the PDP, just to say the least.
One of the main deciding factors for the opposition party to come back to power after enjoying the presidency for 16 years is the candidate the opposition party is able to field.
Among other things, the candidate needs to have a national appeal, impeccable character, enjoy goodwill, be cosmopolitan, have good track records, and intimidating credentials, among others.
As the 13 PDP presidential candidates lock horns in the upcoming primary election, many are worried about who will not just be the flagbearer of the party but who will be able to give APC a good run for their money in the 2023 presidential election.
The New Diplomat reviews the profiles, strengths and weaknesses of the PDP aspirants who had obtained and submitted their nomination forms for the presidential primary election.
Atiku Abubakar
The former Vice President needs no introduction as he has been in the business of politics for decades. He is a serial presidential contender and he is not ready to give up his ambition for anything. Many think he will clinch the party’s ticket as he always did. His chances of becoming the flagbearer are high now since the PDP has jettisoned zoning.
Strength: He has strong network and deep pocket.
Weakness: He has fought many political battles and may likely face battle-fatigue.
Aminu Tambuwal
He is a force to be reckoned with as far as politics is concerned. Aminu Tambuwal won the Sokoto State governorship election in 2015 and he is currently enjoying his second term. The former Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives has been consulting with party delegates to secure the presidential ticket. He believes he can deliver Nigerians from the ruling party.
Strength: Tambuwal is perceived as having youthful energy.
Weakness: He does not seem to have grassroots support.
Nwachukwu Anakwenze
Anakwenze is the Chairman of the Diaspora Igbo group, the Igbo World Assembly, IWA. He is a United States-based medical doctor who cannot be taken for granted. Who knows? He might become the flagbearer of the opposition party if delegates decide to favour the South East. He believes he has what it takes to wrestle power from the ruling party.
Strength: He is from the zone that is politically maginalised and that might be an advantage for him should the PDP zone the ticket to South East.
Weakness: He is not well known.
Dele Momodu
He is fondly called Bob Dee. Momodu is a media entrepreneur. The Ovation boss is very cosmopolitan and his credentials and competency to succeed Buhari are in no doubt. He believes he can use his global exposure and connection to change the tide.
Strength: His exposure, popularity and network are a big plus for him.
Weakness: He does not appear to have deep pocket.
Nyesom Wike
Barrister Nyesom Wike is currently enjoying his second term as the Governor of Rivers State. His outstanding performance in the state speaks for him. No wonder he is called ‘Mr Project’. He wants delegates to reward him by voting for him in the primary because of his support and loyalty to the party over the years. He thinks his fierce personality is what Nigeria needs to succeed.
Strength: He has a deep pocket and financial capacity to finance his campaign.
Weakness: He is perceived to be loquacious.
Mohammed Hayatu-Deen
Hayatu-Deen is an Economist and a presidential aspirant on the platform of the PDP. According to him, he is in the presidential race to work for the Nigerian People. He is not a household name in Nigerian politics. Perhaps, this is an opportunity for him to be known.
Strength: He has good programmes.
Weakness: He does not seem to have deep pocket.
Peter Obi
If the presidential election was to be held on social media, it is certain that the former Governor of Anambra State will coast to victory. He did very well as a Governor. He is considered to be the most credible presidential aspirant. He has been canvassing for support and he is very articulate about what he would do for Nigerians if voted. Whether that is enough to get the ticket will be decided by the delegates.
Strength: He has massive supporters across various social media platforms.
Weakness: He does not seem to enjoy the support of the party’s leadership.
Udom Emmanuel
Udom Emmanuel is the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. Many believe he is there to test the depth of the waters. He is a performer but is that enough to get him the ticket? Time shall tell. He believes he has the magic wand to rescue Nigeria from its innumerable challenges.
Strength: The people of his state seem to be pleased with his performance.
Weakness: He is seen as too politically aloof.
Sam Ohuabunwa
He is a pharmacist. He was chairman of the governing board of Abia State Polytechnic and also chairman of the board of the Abia State Teaching Hospital. In 2021, he announced his candidacy for the Presidency of Nigeria in the 2023 elections under the newly formed party New Nigeria Group (NNG). He thinks he has what it takes to take on the ruling party.
Strength: He has good leadership experience.
Weakness: He doesn’t command a nationwide appeal.
Anyim Pius Anyim
He is a former Senate President who has been calling for the presidency to be zoned to the East. According to the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), he is bringing something to the table even though many are wondering what he is bringing as they are finding it hard to pinpoint his achievements.
Strength: He stands a good chance if the ticket is zoned to the South East.
Weakness: He may face ethical issues over his handling of Nigeria’s centenary project.
Abubakar Bukola Saraki
Saraki is a household name in Nigeria. He is a former Governor of Kwara State. The former Senate President is seen as cerebral and smart. Unlike his successor, he was not a rubber stamp Senate leader. His fierce battle with the executive arm while in office endeared him to many. He will give the ruling party a good fight if he is given the ticket.
Strength: He has the requisite experience and exposure.
Weakness: His handling of defunct Société Générale Bank may be issues that could dug his campaign.
Bala Mohammed
Senator Bala Mohammed is the Governor of Bauchi State and a presidential hopeful on the platform of PDP. The former Minister of Federal Capital Territory seems not to be in a haste to become the president as he said he would simply support whoever emerges as the flagbearer of the party.
Strength: He seems to have the required resources.
Weakness: He does not appear to enjoy nationwide appeal.
Tareila Diana
Just like the APC, Diana is the only female contestant under the platform of the opposition party. Not much is known about her or her political antecedent. However, the opportunity has just presented itself.
Strength: She appears to have good programmes.
Weakness: She is not well known.
