PDP 2027: Presidential Ticket Open to Goodluck Jonathan, Other Southern Aspirants — Turaki
The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Tanimu Turaki, has clarified that the party’s presidential ticket for the 2027 general election remains open to former President Goodluck Jonathan and other qualified aspirants from Southern Nigeria.
Turaki made this known on Tuesday night following a closed-door meeting between members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) and former Vice President Namadi Sambo, who served under Jonathan’s administration. PulseNets learnt that the engagement was part of ongoing consultations with key party elders ahead of the 2027 polls.
Speaking after the meeting, the PDP chairman explained that the visit was primarily to formally introduce the newly constituted NWC to Sambo, while also seeking his guidance on repositioning the opposition party. He disclosed that the former vice president reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP and pledged continued support for its future electoral ambitions.
Reacting to questions on the growing speculation around Jonathan’s possible return to the presidential race in 2027, Turaki stressed that the party has taken a clear zoning position in favour of the South, while keeping the contest open.
“As we have consistently maintained, the PDP has resolved to zone its presidential ticket to the southern part of the country,” Turaki said. “At this point, we cannot say who will eventually emerge as our flagbearer, although we are aware of those who will not.”
He added that eligibility would not be restricted beyond geography and party membership.
“The ticket is open to every PDP member who resides in Southern Nigeria or is of southern extraction,” he noted. “Our process will be open, transparent, fair, and equitable, ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.”
According to him, Nigerians will ultimately determine who carries the party’s banner.
“If anyone chooses to contest, we want to assure Nigerians that the final decision on who becomes the PDP candidate will rest with the people,” he stated.
Providing further insight into the meeting with Sambo, Turaki said the discussion was extensive and forward-looking. PulseNets obtained that the PDP leadership briefed the former vice president on the internal and external challenges confronting the party since the election of the new NWC in Ibadan.
“We had a very productive conversation with His Excellency,” Turaki explained. “We shared with him the prospects of the party and the difficulties we have encountered since assuming office, and he offered us valuable advice on the path forward.”
He emphasized that Sambo’s counsel would play a role in strengthening the PDP as a credible alternative ahead of 2027.
“Most importantly, His Excellency assured us that he remains a committed member of the PDP,” Turaki said. “He also promised to become more actively involved in party affairs and encouraged us to reach out to him whenever the need arises.”
Also Read: Senator Seriake Dickson Denies Defection Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to PDP
Turaki concluded by expressing optimism that the backing of experienced party leaders would boost the PDP’s chances of reclaiming national relevance.
“We are encouraged that the leaders who contributed immensely to the successes of this party are still with us and will continue to stand by us,” he added.
