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  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Makinde Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition as PDP, APM Seal Alliance in Ibadan

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially declared his intention to contest for the presidency in the 2027 general elections, setting the stage for what could become a major battle within the opposition ahead of the next political cycle.

    Makinde made the declaration on Thursday during a large political rally organised by the Peoples Democratic Party and the Allied Peoples Movement in Ibadan.

    PDP, APM Formalise Political Alliance

    The event also witnessed the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between both parties, further fueling talks about emerging political coalitions ahead of 2027.

    Makinde and APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, jointly witnessed the signing ceremony.

    Seyi Bamidele signed on behalf of the PDP, while Oladele Oyadeji represented the APM.

    The rally attracted party loyalists, stakeholders, and political figures from different parts of the South-West and beyond.

    Top Political Figures Attend Rally

    Among dignitaries present were Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; alongside Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, Chief Saka Balogun, Open Salawu, and Abass Adigun.

    The gathering is already being viewed by political observers as an early show of strength ahead of consultations expected to intensify within opposition circles.

    ‘This Movement Goes Beyond Individuals’

    Speaking during the rally, former PDP National Vice Chairman, Eddy Olafeso, described the alliance as the beginning of a new political direction aimed at rebuilding public trust in governance.

    According to Olafeso, the coalition was not driven by personal ambition but by the need for a broader collaboration among political actors concerned about Nigeria’s future.

    “This movement goes beyond individuals. It is not about personal ambition or unhealthy political competition. It is about this generation, the next generation and generations yet unborn,” he said.

    He added that the current economic and political realities in the country had made opposition unity increasingly necessary.

    Pressure Builds Ahead of 2027

    Makinde’s declaration is expected to trigger fresh conversations within the PDP and allied political blocs as discussions around zoning, coalition-building, and party primaries begin to gather momentum.

    The Oyo governor now joins the growing list of political figures expected to shape early calculations for the 2027 presidential election.

  • Wike-Backed PDP Begins Screening Of Presidential, Governorship Aspirants Ahead Of 2027

    The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) backed by Nyesom Wike has commenced the screening of presidential, governorship and national assembly aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the party’s National Working Committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed.

    Screening Holds In Abuja

    The statement, signed by Chinwe Nnorom on behalf of Jungudo Mohammed, the party’s national publicity secretary, stated that the screening exercise was taking place at the PDP national secretariat annex, Legacy House, Maitama, Abuja.

    According to the party, governorship aspirants were scheduled for screening at noon, while presidential aspirants were fixed for 2pm.

    The PDP also announced that former Abia State governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, is chairing the presidential screening committee, with Hassan Sokodobo serving as secretary.

    Other members of the committee include former senators George Sekibo and Zainab Kure alongside other party stakeholders.

    Makarfi Heads Governorship Screening Panel

    The governorship screening committee is being chaired by former Kaduna State governor, Ahmed Makarfi.

    George Ariolu was named secretary of the panel, while Ibrahim Umar, Aisha Madawaki and Tajudeen Yusuf were listed among committee members.

    Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Completes Screening

    Meanwhile, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed that she had successfully completed the PDP screening exercise ahead of the Kogi Central senatorial primary election.

    Speaking after the exercise in Lokoja, the senator said she arrived with all required credentials and supporting documents.

    “I am pleased to have successfully completed the screening exercise as part of the process ahead of the party primaries for the 2027 Kogi Central Senatorial Election under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party,” she said.

    She described the process as part of her continued commitment to representation and service.

    More Aspirants Cleared

    Muhammed Abdullahi, popularly known as “Elephant,” also announced that he had been screened and cleared to contest the PDP primary for Kogi East Senatorial District.

    In Cross River State, the PDP disclosed that 45 aspirants seeking national assembly and state assembly tickets had also been screened ahead of the party’s May 21 primaries.

    The exercise was conducted by a five-man panel headed by Fred Osim.

    One of the aspirants screened was Alex Egbona, who recently defected from the APC to the PDP.

  • Makinde Expected to Declare 2027 Presidential Ambition at Massive Ibadan Rally

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to formally declare his presidential ambition on Thursday, May 14, at a major political rally scheduled to hold at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan.

    The event, tagged “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026,” is expected to serve as the official platform for Makinde’s anticipated entry into the 2027 presidential race, alongside broader political alignments involving key stakeholders.

    Rally Set To Signal Political Realignment

    Sources familiar with preparations said the rally will also feature discussions around a growing alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), alongside other coalition-aligned political actors.

    According to reports, grassroots mobilisers, political associates and loyalists have intensified preparations as consultations continue over a possible national political structure being built around the governor.

    Behind-the-Scenes Consultations Intensify

    It was gathered that the move is part of a wider strategy aimed at strengthening grassroots networks across Oyo State and the South-West, while expanding Makinde’s influence within Nigeria’s national political space.

    Political sources also revealed that internal tensions within the PDP at the national level have pushed some stakeholders to explore alternative arrangements ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Strong Turnout Expected In Ibadan

    The May 14 rally is expected to attract political leaders, youth groups, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and supporters from different parts of the country.

    As of the time of filing this report, Makinde has not officially confirmed his presidential ambition, although pressure from supporters and political allies continues to grow.

  • Makinde Emerges PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman After Bala Mohammed’s Exit

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has been appointed chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), days after Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed exited the party.

    The development comes amid a shifting political landscape that has significantly reduced the PDP’s control at the state level.

    Leadership change follows defection

    Makinde’s emergence follows the defection of Bala Mohammed, who previously chaired the forum, to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

    The change leaves Makinde as the only governor currently elected on the platform of the PDP.

    PDP influence declines nationwide

    The party’s position has weakened sharply since the 2023 general elections, where it produced 12 governors.

    As of May 2026, the All Progressives Congress (APC) controls 31 of Nigeria’s 36 states, while the remaining five are shared among smaller parties including the PDP, Labour Party, APGA, Accord Party and APM.

    Forum hails Makinde’s emergence

    In a statement, the PDP Governors’ Forum described Makinde’s appointment as significant for both the party and Nigeria’s democratic system.

    The forum commended his role in sustaining multi-party democracy despite the current political climate.

    “Your resilience and steadfastness in sustaining multi-party democracy in Nigeria at a time when others have faltered is truly commendable,” the statement read.

    Calls for stronger opposition role

    The forum also framed Makinde’s leadership as a counterbalance to what it described as growing one-party dominance.

    It said his emergence offers renewed hope for democratic values, including accountability and good governance.

    Expectation of party revival

    Members expressed optimism that his tenure would strengthen the PDP’s internal structure and national relevance.

    They added that his leadership could help reposition the party ahead of future electoral contests.

  • PDP Interim NEC Unveils 2026 Primary Timetable, Sets Nomination Fees Ahead of Party Primaries

    The interim National Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party has approved its 2026 pre-election timetable and nomination guidelines ahead of the party’s primaries.

    The decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the party’s interim leadership, outlining key dates and fees for aspirants.

    Timetable for primaries released

    According to the statement, the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms will run from May 5 to May 13, 2026.

    Submission of completed forms is scheduled for May 14, followed by screening of aspirants from May 15 to May 18.

    The party fixed May 21 for screening appeals, while the final list of cleared aspirants will be published on May 22.

    Ward primaries are expected to hold on May 27, with appeals on the exercise slated for May 28.

    A National Executive Committee meeting to approve candidates will take place on May 29, while a special convention for ratification is set for May 30.

    Breakdown of nomination fees

    The PDP also released the cost of forms for various elective positions.

    For State House of Assembly, the expression of interest form is pegged at ₦500,000, while the nomination form costs ₦1.5 million.

    House of Representatives aspirants are to pay ₦2 million for expression of interest and ₦5 million for nomination.

    Senate forms are priced at ₦3 million and ₦7 million respectively.

    Governorship aspirants will pay ₦5 million for expression of interest and ₦35 million for nomination, while the presidential forms are pegged at ₦10 million and ₦90 million.

    Concessions for women, youths

    The party announced that women will only pay for expression of interest forms, as nomination forms are free for them.

    Youths and persons living with disabilities are to enjoy a 50 percent discount on nomination forms across all positions.

    The move, according to the party, is aimed at encouraging broader participation in the political process.

    Fresh division emerges within PDP

    Meanwhile, a faction loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has announced a separate date for the party’s presidential primaries.

    The group fixed May 23, 2026, for its exercise, indicating ongoing divisions within the party structure.

    The parallel moves highlight the deepening leadership crisis within the PDP as preparations intensify for the next election cycle.

  • PDP Crisis Deepens as Makinde Camp Moves to Name Turaki Caretaker Chair

    Fresh cracks have widened within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the faction backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde moves to unveil a 10-member caretaker committee, with Tanimu Turaki (SAN) tipped to lead the body.

    The committee is expected to be announced on Monday following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja.

    BoT backs Turaki amid leadership vacuum claims

    Sources said the Adolphus Wabara-led Board of Trustees (BoT) endorsed Turaki during a meeting held on Sunday, citing his acceptability across party ranks.

    Opening the session, Wabara insisted the party would not bow to what he described as “renegades and political brigands,” adding that the BoT had stepped in to stabilise the PDP.

    He argued that recent developments had created a leadership vacuum within the party.

    Supreme Court ruling fuels crisis

    The move follows the Supreme Court’s April 30 judgment, which invalidated the Makinde-backed PDP national convention held in Ibadan.

    In a split decision, the apex court ruled that the exercise violated subsisting court orders, intensifying the party’s internal crisis.

    Wabara said the BoT had secured the required backing to convene the NEC meeting and restore order.

    Mixed views over Turaki’s emergence

    A source at the meeting said most BoT members supported Turaki’s emergence as caretaker chairman, describing him as widely accepted.

    “Most members believe Turaki has boosted the party’s image and remains acceptable,” the source said.

    However, another insider noted that some members proposed alternative candidates, although indications suggest Turaki may eventually emerge.

    Makinde eyes 2027 presidential bid

    In a related development, sources revealed that Governor Makinde is expected to formally declare his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election within the week.

    He is said to be committed to remaining in the PDP despite the ongoing crisis.

    Wike faction rejects move

    Meanwhile, the faction aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike dismissed claims of a leadership vacuum.

    The group’s publicity secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, described the BoT meeting as inconsequential, insisting that the current leadership remains intact.

    “The meeting they held was just a gathering of people taking tea,” he said, adding that any outcome from it is a nullity.

    The PDP has remained divided for months, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s structure as political alignments intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

     

  • Bala Mohammed Dumps PDP, Joins APM After Supreme Court Ruling

    Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has defected to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) alongside loyalists from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing the fallout from the Supreme Court ruling on the party’s leadership crisis.

    Decision follows stakeholder consultations

    The governor announced the move on Saturday after a meeting with political stakeholders to review the implications of the court judgment and chart a new course.

    He said he had spent eight days in Abuja consulting widely with party leaders in an attempt to resolve the PDP’s internal crisis.

    Supreme Court ruling shifts ground

    According to Mohammed, the apex court’s decision nullifying parallel conventions conducted by rival factions significantly altered the party’s structure.

    He noted that the ruling left both factions without legal backing, with the PDP Board of Trustees now overseeing affairs temporarily.

    He added that subsequent developments only deepened uncertainty within the party.

    ‘We cannot leave our people stranded’

    “After careful consideration and wide consultations with leaders and stakeholders across the country, it has become clear that our efforts to restore stability have not yielded the desired results,” he said.

    While thanking the PDP for his political journey, the governor stressed the need to move forward.

    “However, as responsible leaders, we cannot allow our people to be left without a credible and effective political platform,” he added.

    APM chosen as new political platform

    Mohammed described the APM as a stable alternative without legal complications, saying the decision was strategic for political continuity.

    “Consequently, after extensive consultations, we have taken a firm and strategic decision to join the Allied Peoples Movement,” he declared.

    He maintained that the move was not driven by bitterness but necessity.

    “We remain PDP at heart. We are leaving not out of bitterness, but out of necessity,” he said.

    Transition plan already underway

    The governor outlined steps to ensure a smooth transition, including setting up a compliance committee, launching membership registration, and engaging with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    He also disclosed that members of the State Executive Council seeking elective positions had resigned in line with legal requirements.

    APM welcomes new entrants

    National Chairman of the APM, Yusuf Dantalle, formally received Mohammed and his supporters into the party.

    He described the APM as a disciplined and democratic platform, assuring the new members of stability and internal cohesion.

    Dantalle presented the governor with a membership card and party insignia, marking his official entry into the party.