2027: The fear of Ombugadu’s  return to PDP by APC members in Nasarawa

From Abel Zwanke, Lafia 

The return of David Emmanuel Ombugadu to the main opposition party, ‘Peoples Democratic Party’ has continued to generate layered interpretations, with emerging insider accounts suggesting his brief stay in the All Progressives Congress (APC) may have been driven by interests beyond Nasarawa State.

Multiple political sources now hint that his earlier move to the APC might not have been entirely organic. Some suggest it may have been influenced by power blocs within the presidency who saw strategic value in his grassroots strength, even if such a move did not sit well with a section of his supporters at the time.

According to insiders, Ombugadu’s entry into the APC was tied to certain understandings, though details remain largely undisclosed. However, his stay in the ruling party was reportedly short-lived due to internal resistance.

 Some APC stakeholders, allegedly wary of his rising influence and independent political base, are said to have created an uncomfortable environment that limited his operational space.

One source familiar with the development noted that “there was visible apprehension about the kind of structure he was building within a short time. Not everyone was comfortable with that level of influence.”

This perception appears to have been reinforced by claims that Ombugadu distributed over 300,000 party registration forms to his supporters during his brief stint in the APC, a figure some analysts say it might have  exceeded existing party registration strength in parts of the state.

“It is enough to make anyone nervous,” said political analyst Godswill Anzaku, who described Ombugadu as a political force whose capacity to mobilise cannot be ignored.

His return to the PDP, therefore, is being interpreted in some quarters as a recalibration rather than a withdrawal. By rejoining his base, Ombugadu appears to have consolidated his structure while avoiding prolonged internal battles within the APC.

Analysts also point to a broader national context. With Bola Ahmed Tinubu expected to seek re-election in 2027, some observers believe figures like Ombugadu could become important to any presidential candidate aiming to secure Nasarawa State.

As one analyst put it, “He is a household name. Any serious contender looking at Nasarawa will have to factor him in. Whether directly or indirectly, his influence can shape outcomes.”

There are also indications that Ombugadu’s return aligns with shifting dynamics within the PDP at the national level. His reappearance at the party’s convention on March 29, 2026, alongside loyalists, coincided with the consolidation of a faction widely associated with Nyesom Wike.

The convention, which produced a new party leadership, appears to have stabilised internal disputes that previously plagued the PDP, including prolonged disagreements between rival blocs. Prior to this, tensions within the party had led to fears that it might struggle to present candidates in some elections, prompting defections by several governors.

However, following the convention, the Wike-aligned leadership signaled a renewed direction. While affirming that the PDP would field candidates in various elections, the bloc also indicated it may not present a presidential candidate in 2027, a position that has further fueled political speculation nationwide.

Back in Nasarawa, Ombugadu’s return has already begun to reshape the PDP’s internal structure. Within days, 10 out of 13 members of the State Executive Council reportedly suspended the party chairman, Adamu Ninga, over allegations of anti-party activities and misconduct.

The development is being interpreted by observers as a sign that Ombugadu has swiftly reasserted influence within the party’s state structure, especially as some notable figures have exited the PDP in recent times.

Despite the complexities, one narrative remains consistent across political circles: Ombugadu’s relevance cuts across party affiliations. His grassroots appeal and ability to command loyalty continue to set him apart in Nasarawa politics.

“There is a general belief that wherever he stands, he will perform,” said political analyst Danladi Adamu. “He connects with the people in a way many politicians struggle to replicate.”

As 2027 draws closer, the focus is less on where Ombugadu stands today and more on how his influence may shape the broader political equation. Whether as a party leader, power broker, or rallying figure, his role is expected to remain central.

For now, what is clear is that in Nasarawa’s political space, Ombugadu represents a strategic asset, one that any serious political interest, regardless of party, may find difficult to ignore.