Denies Yoruba Priority Promise Ahead of 2027 Election

In a significant political development, Dr. Paul Orhii, former Director-General of Nigeria’s National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a fresh chapter in the country’s evolving political scene. Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denied reports claiming he promised to prioritize the Yoruba ethnic group’s interests if elected president in 2027, amidst swirling election-year rumors.

Orhii’s resignation from the PDP was officially communicated in a letter dated July 28, 2025, addressed to the Chairman of the PDP in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State. The seasoned public servant, who twice aspired to be Benue State governor under the PDP banner in 2019 and 2023, emphasized that his decision followed thorough consultations with family, friends, supporters, and political associates both within Nigeria and globally. “After intensive consultations… I have decided to resign my membership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) with immediate effect. This is to enable me join the coalition of other progressive-minded Nigerians in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on the rescue mission,” the letter read.

Orhii expressed profound gratitude to the PDP for the platform it provided him to serve the nation at high levels, including his tenure as NAFDAC DG. His move to the ADC illustrates a growing trend of politicians seeking alternative platforms ahead of the pivotal 2027 general elections, reflecting both changing political dynamics and calls for national renewal.

Simultaneously, political tensions have surfaced regarding claims that Atiku Abubakar pledged to prioritize Yoruba interests as part of his 2027 presidential campaign agenda. The report, initially attributed to a supposed media consultant named Kola Johnson, suggested that the Yoruba region would occupy a “topmost place” in his policy priorities. However, Atiku’s media office swiftly discredited the claims, describing them as false and misleading. Paul Ibe, Atiku’s media adviser, stated: “Our findings point directly to the Presidency, which in its desperation to smear opposition leaders, has resorted to hiring faceless mercenaries to fabricate fake stories… Any communication from Atiku can only be considered authentic if issued by the Atiku Media Office.”

The denial underscores the highly charged political environment ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections, where ethnic and regional interests significantly influence narratives and voter expectations. Atiku, a former vice president and the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, remains a central opposition figure against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, pledging reforms aimed at national unity rather than ethnic favoritism.

Experts view Orhii’s entry into the ADC as emblematic of the fragmentation and re-alignment underway in Nigerian politics, triggered by a widespread desire for new political approaches. Political analyst Niyi Akinsiju commented, “Orhii’s move to ADC signals a call for progressive coalitions beyond the dominant parties, reflecting public appetite for rescue missions that can address governance deficits.”

The Yoruba interest controversy further illustrates how political communication in Nigeria is volatile, often shaped by strategic misinformation or propaganda ahead of elections. Media scholars advise cautious evaluation of emerging claims and call on political actors to foster an inclusive narrative.

In summary, these developments highlight the intensifying political maneuvering as Nigeria gears up for the 2027 elections. Orhii’s shift to ADC reflects a search for alternate national leadership platforms, while Atiku’s denial of ethnic favoritism allegations strives to maintain a broad-based appeal. The coming months are expected to witness more such realignments and clarifications, shaping Nigeria’s democratic trajectory. Readers should stay attuned to unfolding political shifts and verified news as the election landscape heats up.