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  • PDP Tackles Keyamo Over Comments on Jonathan’s 2027 Ambition

    The Peoples Democratic Party has criticised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over his comments advising former President Goodluck Jonathan not to accept any presidential nomination ahead of the 2027 election.

    The opposition party accused Keyamo of meddling in its internal affairs and questioned his authority to determine Jonathan’s political future.

    PDP Questions Keyamo’s Position

    In a statement,  PDP said it would ordinarily have ignored the minister’s remarks but chose to respond because of what it described as growing anxiety within the ruling All Progressives Congress over calls for Jonathan’s possible return to national leadership.

    The party argued that Keyamo’s comments were inconsistent with his past role as a public interest lawyer and activist.

    “It is rather ironic that Festus Keyamo, a man who built his public profile through relentless criticism of governments and public office holders, now seeks to deny others the very democratic space he once occupied with such enthusiasm,” the statement said.

    Focus on Governance, PDP Tells Minister

     PDP said Nigerians remember Keyamo as a vocal critic of those in authority and questioned why he now appeared uncomfortable with political parties exercising their constitutional rights.

    The party urged the minister to concentrate on issues affecting the aviation sector rather than opposition politics.

    “Instead of concerning himself with the internal affairs of the PDP, the Minister would do well to devote his energy to addressing the numerous challenges confronting the aviation sector and the wider administration of which he is a part,” the statement added.

    Jonathan’s Record Defended

    PDP also defended Jonathan’s administration, arguing that many Nigerians still remember his tenure positively.

    According to the party, the former president presided over a period marked by political stability, economic growth and increased investor confidence.

    “The obvious nervousness that has greeted President Jonathan’s candidacy is understandable because Nigerians have not forgotten that under his administration, the country enjoyed political stability, sustained economic growth, increased foreign investor confidence and a more inclusive national atmosphere,” the party stated.

    Party Dismisses Political Pressure

    PDP maintained that no form of political pressure would stop Nigerians from supporting candidates of their choice in future elections.

    It added that as the country moves closer to another election cycle, many citizens are seeking capable and unifying leaders who can address the nation’s economic and security challenges.

    The party concluded by advising Keyamo to focus on helping the government tackle pressing national issues rather than offering what it described as unsolicited political advice to Jonathan.

  • Bala Mohammed Denies Link to Jonathan 2027 Presidential Ticket

    Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has denied reports suggesting he is being considered as a running mate to former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The clarification follows growing online speculation linking the governor to a potential joint ticket after Jonathan was adopted as a presidential candidate by a Peoples Democratic Party faction led by Kabiru Turaki.

    Jonathan’s Candidacy Sparks Political Speculation

    Jonathan was declared the faction’s presidential candidate during a special convention held in Abuja on Saturday. Although he was absent, his Certificate of Return was received on his behalf by Bayelsa lawmaker Fred Agbedi.

    Shortly after the convention, claims emerged on social media suggesting that Bala Mohammed had been picked as a possible vice-presidential candidate.

    The speculation was further amplified by political commentary online, triggering widespread debate within opposition circles.

    Mohammed Rejects Claims

    In a statement posted on his verified X account, the Bauchi governor dismissed the reports as false and misleading.

    “Thank you for your interest in my political aspirations. However, for the sake of clarity, my focus remains firmly on contesting for the Bauchi South Senatorial District seat under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM),” he wrote.

    He urged the public to disregard any information linking him to a different political arrangement, describing such claims as speculative and inaccurate.

    Focus on Senatorial Ambition

    Mohammed also reiterated that his current political priority is the Bauchi South senatorial seat under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), following his reported departure from the Peoples Democratic Party amid internal party tensions.

    He maintained that his attention remains on his immediate political plans rather than national-level negotiations.

    The development comes amid ongoing realignments within opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Jonathan Emerges PDP Faction’s 2027 Presidential Candidate Amid Convention Drama

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has emerged as the presidential candidate of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party for the 2027 general election.

    The former Nigerian leader was ratified as the faction’s candidate during a special national convention organised by the group led by Kabiru Turaki in Abuja on Saturday.

    Jonathan Ratified in Absentia

    Although Jonathan was absent from the convention, delegates unanimously endorsed his candidacy.

    His certificate of return was received on his behalf by Fred Agbedi, a member of the House of Representatives representing Bayelsa State.

    Party officials said a date would be announced later for the formal presentation of the party’s flag to the former president.

    Convention Venue Changed After Police Blockade

    The Turaki-led faction had initially scheduled the convention to hold at the A-Class Park and Event Centre in Abuja.

    However, the event faced a setback after the Federal Capital Territory Administration directed hotel and event centre operators to deal only with political party leaderships recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

    The PDP faction aligned with Nyesom Wike is currently the group recognised by INEC.

    Police officers reportedly blocked access roads leading to the original venue on Saturday morning, forcing organisers to relocate the gathering.

    Delegates Meet at Party Office

    Following the disruption, party officials moved the convention to the faction’s office in Area 10, Garki District, Abuja.

    Delegates later assembled at the new venue and proceeded with the convention, where Jonathan’s nomination was formally ratified.

    Fresh Twist in PDP Leadership Crisis

    The development adds another layer to the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP, where multiple factions continue to battle over the party’s structure and control ahead of the 2027 elections.

    It remains unclear whether Jonathan will formally accept the nomination, as the former president has not publicly commented on the development.

  • Court Clears Goodluck Jonathan To Contest 2027 Presidential Election

    A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ruled that former President Goodluck Jonathan is eligible to contest the 2027 presidential election.

    The judgment followed a suit filed by Johnmary Jideobi, who sought an order restraining Jonathan from presenting himself as a presidential candidate in the next general election.

    Court Rejects Suit Against Jonathan

    The plaintiff had asked the court to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission from accepting, processing or publishing Jonathan’s name as a presidential candidate for 2027.

    Jideobi also requested the court to determine whether Jonathan remained eligible to seek the office of president again under Sections 1(1), (2), (3) and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution.

    However, delivering judgment on Tuesday, Justice Peter Lifu held that the former president could lawfully participate in the election.

    The ruling effectively clears the way for Jonathan to seek the presidency again if he decides to contest.

    PDP Faction Offers Jonathan Waiver

    The development comes days after a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki reportedly offered Jonathan a waiver as the party’s sole presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 election.

    The move had intensified political discussions over a possible return of the former president to active electoral politics.

    Jonathan’s Political History

    Goodluck Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president between 2010 and 2015 after completing the tenure of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua before winning the 2011 presidential election.

    He later lost the 2015 presidential election to former President Muhammadu Buhari, becoming the first sitting Nigerian president to lose a re-election bid.

    Since leaving office, Jonathan has remained active in diplomatic and peacebuilding efforts across Africa, while repeatedly facing calls from political supporters to return to the presidential race.

     

  • Makinde-Backed PDP Faction Declares Jonathan Sole Presidential Candidate for 2027

    A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared former President Goodluck Jonathan as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

    The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja during the party’s presidential screening exercise, where senior member Babangida Aliyu confirmed that Jonathan had been granted a waiver from appearing before the committee.

    Jonathan Cleared Without Screening

    Aliyu explained that the decision was based on Jonathan’s extensive political experience, noting that his previous roles made additional screening unnecessary.

    According to him, Jonathan had served as deputy governor, governor, vice president and later president, making him automatically qualified for the party’s consideration.

    “In other words, he had been declared and cleared as the candidate of the PDP for the presidential election and that is President Jonathan,” Aliyu said.

    The development effectively positions Jonathan as the faction’s consensus flagbearer ahead of the 2027 polls.

    Screening Waivers Extended to Other Aspirants

    The committee also granted a waiver to Taofeek Arapaja, a member of the Interim National Working Committee, who is contesting the Oyo State governorship seat.

    Other governorship aspirants screened and cleared include Myebangara Andrew (Adamawa), Ikenya Danlami (Taraba), Etanabene Benedict (Delta), and Abdullahi Sheriff (Yobe).

    Faction Moves Signal Internal Realignment

    The announcement highlights ongoing internal realignments within the PDP as different blocs position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    While the faction insists its process follows party guidelines, the declaration is expected to further intensify political debates within the opposition party.

  • PDP Faction Screens Jonathan As Sole Presidential Aspirant For 2027

    A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Turaki is set to screen former President Goodluck Jonathan as its only presidential aspirant ahead of the party’s 2027 primaries.

    The party disclosed in a statement on Sunday that the screening exercise for all aspirants would take place on Tuesday by 10am as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.

    Jonathan Emerges Lone Presidential Hopeful

    Although the party did not officially mention the name of the presidential aspirant in the statement, sources within the PDP confirmed that Jonathan is the sole contender expected to appear before the screening panel.

    The development comes amid renewed calls by some Nigerians and political stakeholders urging the former president to return to power following growing economic hardship linked to the removal of fuel subsidy.

    Attempts to reach Ini Ememobong, spokesperson of the faction, for clarification were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

    Over 3,000 Aspirants To Be Screened

    According to the statement, the party will also screen 2,122 state house of assembly aspirants, 748 house of representatives hopefuls, 198 senatorial aspirants and 112 governorship contenders.

    The PDP explained that the exercise is part of preparations for its forthcoming primary elections.

    “This publication is in accordance with the party’s guidelines and timetable for the conduct of the 2027 general election,” the statement read.

    Heavyweights Named On Screening Committee

    The 14-member screening committee includes former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, former Plateau governor Jonah Jang and former Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Ikimi.

    Other members are Bode George, Babangida Aliyu, Maryam Ciroma, Zainab Maina, Josephine Anenih, Abdul Bulama, Esther Uduehi, Tony Aziegbemi, Sunday Solari and Anicho Okoro, who will serve as administrative secretary.

    The party said the committee was approved during the PDP National Executive Committee’s 104th meeting.

  • Rufai Oseni Questions Jonathan’s Capacity Amid Fresh 2027 Presidential Calls

    Veteran broadcaster Rufai Oseni has questioned whether former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan still has the capacity to revive Nigeria’s struggling economy amid renewed calls for his possible return to power ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Speaking during a viral edition of his QuickTakes programme on Arise TV, Rufai said Jonathan has every constitutional right to contest again, but insisted Nigerians must honestly assess whether the former president can handle the country’s current economic realities.

    Rufai Questions Jonathan’s Readiness

    “Dear President Jonathan, do you really, really think you have what it takes to be able to revamp the ailing economy?” Rufai asked during the broadcast.

    The media personality noted that many of the same political actors now urging Jonathan to contest were among those who strongly criticised his administration before the 2015 election.

    He questioned why the former president was once seen as unfit to lead Nigeria, but is now being projected by some groups as a possible solution to the nation’s problems.

    “But the question is, for those that have touted Jonathan to run, these were the same people that said a lot of things about him in 2015,” he said.

    Peter Obi Mentioned in Political Speculations

    Rufai also referenced political speculations suggesting Jonathan’s possible return could affect the support base of Labour Party figure Peter Obi if he eventually joins the presidential race.

    According to the broadcaster, some political observers believe influential figures may be considering Jonathan as a strategy to divide Obi’s supporters because of the former president’s popularity among many Nigerians.

    Concerns Over Economy and Governance

    The journalist went further to highlight Nigeria’s worsening economic and social conditions, including forex instability, rising poverty, corruption, and challenges within the oil sector.

    He stressed that the country currently needs energetic leadership capable of tackling multiple national crises at the same time.

    “An economy that over 63% of people live in abject poverty. An economy that needs a lot of vigour. An economy that needs to fight corruption,” Rufai stated.

    He also mentioned lingering issues surrounding Nigeria’s refineries and ongoing efforts by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to rehabilitate them.

    Legal Questions May Surface

    Rufai additionally pointed to recent court rulings concerning eligibility for individuals who have previously taken the presidential oath twice, suggesting legal debates may also emerge if Jonathan eventually decides to contest.

    Ending his remarks, the broadcaster directly addressed the former president, saying: “Good luck, Ebele Jonathan. You’ve always had luck following you. Mr President, can you do it?”

  • 2027: NDC Breaks Silence on Alleged Jonathan Presidential Pact

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed reports linking the party to an alleged agreement with former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The party said consultations regarding its presidential ticket were still ongoing and no final decision had been reached.

    NDC denies zoning presidential ticket

    Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s Deputy National Spokesman, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, stated that the NDC had neither zoned its presidential ticket nor entered into any pact with Jonathan.

    “The NDC is a party that believes in merging ideas and consultations across boards,” he said.

    “I can categorically tell you that we have not zoned the presidential ticket. Consultations are still ongoing since politics is a dynamic game.”

    His remarks come amid growing speculation that the former president could emerge as a consensus candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

    ‘High-profile politicians joining party’

    Abdulsalam disclosed that the NDC was already attracting interest from several influential political figures across different parties, including members of the ruling APC.

    According to him, former governors, ex-ministers and lawmakers are making moves towards the party ahead of the next election cycle.

    “As I speak to you, we are still expecting high-profile personalities, including former governors, ex-ministers, serving and former lawmakers, even from the ruling party,” he said.

    “The NDC is the beautiful bride that everybody wants to have right now.”

    Party reacts to Jonathan rumours

    Reacting directly to reports surrounding Jonathan, Abdulsalam described the claims as speculation without any formal backing from the party leadership.

    “This is another rumour making the rounds that former President Jonathan wants to pitch his tent in our party,” he stated.

    “There is no concrete move like that in the hierarchy of our party, and such a decision has not been taken.”

    Despite the denial, the spokesman noted that Jonathan remains constitutionally qualified to contest if he decides to return to active politics.

    “But I can tell you that everything is still possible in the case of former President Jonathan,” he added.

    “He is a Nigerian who is eminently qualified to fly the flag of the party on any platform of his choice. But as of today, we have no pact with him.”

  • Jonathan Speaks on 2027 Presidency After Supporters Storm Abuja Office

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will take time to consult before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, following fresh calls for his return to active politics.

    He spoke on Thursday in Abuja after a group of supporters visited his office, urging him to join the race ahead of the next general elections.

    Pressure Mounts as Supporters Make Case

    The supporters gathered at Jonathan’s office to persuade him to re-enter the political arena, pointing to his experience and past contributions to democratic growth in Nigeria and across Africa.

    They insisted that his leadership record and global democratic engagements make him a strong candidate for 2027.

    “Presidential Race Is Not a Game”

    Responding to the calls, Jonathan acknowledged the appeal but stressed that running for president requires serious reflection.

    “Presidential race is not a computer game, but I heard you, and I will consult widely,” he said.

    He also appreciated the group for the visit, noting that their concerns had been clearly received.

    Focus on Patriotism and National Stability

    Jonathan used the moment to highlight the role of patriotism in nation-building, warning against actions that undermine national interest.

    “It’s only patriotic citizens that build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation and take the money elsewhere,” he said.

    He stressed that Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens who are committed to protecting and developing the country.

    Peace, Credible Elections Top Priority

    The former President identified peace as Nigeria’s most urgent need, especially as the country prepares for future elections.

    “The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said, urging young Nigerians to promote unity and stability.

    He added that credible elections remain critical, warning that flawed processes could discourage capable individuals from entering politics.

    “Because if we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, most good citizens will not want to get involved in politics,” Jonathan stated.

    Youth Participation in Democracy

    Jonathan called on Nigerian youths to stay actively engaged in the electoral process, particularly through voting.

    He said young people hold the key to shaping the country’s political future and must not withdraw from democratic participation.

    “You as young people must continue to be fully involved in the electoral processes, especially your right to vote,” he said.

    Lessons from Africa and 2015 Transition

    Drawing from his post-presidency role, Jonathan noted that he has observed elections in over 14 African countries, reinforcing the importance of peaceful democratic transitions.

    He also referenced Nigeria’s 2015 election, where he lost to former President Muhammadu Buhari, marking the first time an incumbent president conceded defeat.

    The peaceful handover of power on May 29, 2015, remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history.

    Looking Ahead to Future Generations

    Jonathan emphasised the need to build a Nigeria that serves future generations, urging leaders and citizens to think beyond immediate gains.

    He said the country must prioritise long-term development to secure a better future for younger Nigerians and generations to come.

  • Obi Meets Jonathan With South East Leaders as 2027 Consultations Intensify

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday visited former President Goodluck Jonathan at his residence in Abuja, alongside a delegation of South East leaders.

    The meeting comes amid growing political consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    South East Leaders Present at Meeting

    Those present at the meeting included former Enugu State governor Okwesilieze Nwodo, former Imo State governor Achike Udenwa, ex-NDDC Managing Director Onyema Ugochukwu, and Senator Victor Umeh, among others.

    The visit is widely seen as part of Obi’s ongoing engagement with key political figures.

    Obi Speaks on Purpose of Visit

    Addressing journalists after the meeting, Obi said the visit was purely consultative and focused on Nigeria’s future and the 2027 elections.

    “We, some notable South East leaders, have come in consultation to our respected former President Goodluck Jonathan… it is all about Nigeria,” he said.

    Jonathan Calls for Credible Elections

    Obi revealed that Jonathan emphasised the need for free, fair, and credible elections, while rejecting the idea of a one-party system.

    “He wished that we have free, fair, credible election… There can’t be a one-party system. He cannot support such thing,” Obi said.

    He described Jonathan as a committed democrat who served the country faithfully.

    No Endorsement Yet

    On speculation about endorsement, Obi clarified that no such discussion has taken place.

    “We’re not talking about endorsement yet. When I become a candidate, I’ll come back for endorsement,” he stated.

    2027 Political Moves Gather Pace

    The meeting comes as Obi has already indicated interest in contesting the 2027 presidential election, reportedly under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with consultations ongoing across political blocs.