A faction of Nigeria’s opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday declared former President Goodluck Jonathan its presidential candidate for the 2027 election, despite his absence from the event and ongoing leadership disputes within the party.
The faction, led by former minister Tanimu Turaki, ratified Jonathan’s nomination during a special national convention held in Abuja after security operatives sealed its initially planned venue, organisers said.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, did not attend the gathering, but his Certificate of Return was received on his behalf by Bayelsa lawmaker Fred Agbedi.
Speaking after the convention, Turaki said the group’s actions were consistent with court rulings and the PDP constitution, while accusing unnamed political interests of attempting to undermine democratic processes.
The move deepens divisions within the PDP ahead of the 2027 general election, with a rival faction aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike rejecting the gathering and insisting that Sandy Onor remains the party’s recognised presidential candidate.
The convention adopted Jonathan’s candidature through a voice vote after a motion proposed by Edo State PDP Chairman Tony Aziegbemi and seconded by former Aviation Minister Mohammed Sanusi Dagash.