The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated a zoning committee to determine power-sharing arrangements for the 2027 general elections, while dismissing reports of official negotiations to bring back former President Goodluck Jonathan and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. According to PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, the party already boasts a sufficient pool of credible presidential contenders and is focused on its November elective convention in Ibadan.
The development comes amid internal debate within the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) over whether Jonathan and Obi, who left the party at critical moments, should return. Critics recall Jonathan’s departure after his 2015 defeat and Obi’s 2019 defection to the Labour Party, both of which they say weakened the PDP’s fortunes. Others argue that their return could strengthen the party’s chances in 2027.
PDP leaders point to the availability of strong internal contenders, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. Ologunagba stressed that the party’s attention is on the elective convention, where 19 new National Working Committee members will be elected. He insisted loyalty would be a non-negotiable condition for all members.
While Jonathan has not confirmed any interest in returning to active politics, legal questions remain about his eligibility under the 2018 constitutional amendment limiting terms for those who have previously completed another president’s tenure. Obi has maintained his alliance with the Labour Party and African Democratic Congress.
Some NEC members have expressed mixed feelings about Jonathan and Obi’s potential return. A PDP National Working Committee member revealed that the party leadership is not currently in discussions with Jonathan or Obi, adding that those reaching out are doing so individually and not on behalf of the party. The source stated that Jonathan would be received by the party with mixed feelings due to his past actions.
Reactions to the potential return of Jonathan and Obi have been mixed, with some party members questioning why they should be welcomed back after abandoning the party in its time of need. Others believe that their experience and popularity could be assets to the party.
A NEC member, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor, partly blamed Jonathan for abandoning the party after 2015 but called for unity, stating, “Yes, he shirked certain responsibilities… But we are not in a position now to apportion blame… every hand, including Obi, should be welcomed.” Osadolor argued that Jonathan is not the party’s only viable option, citing Makinde’s performance.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the PDP’s preparations, with Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim describing the opposition as “a party in intensive care” and predicting President Bola Tinubu would win re-election regardless of the PDP’s choice of candidate.
The PDP recently emerged from months of internal crisis, during which prominent members defected to rival parties. As part of its rebuilding efforts, the party resolved to hold a National Elective Convention in Ibadan to elect new members into its National Working Committee. Governor Bala Mohammed has met separately with Jonathan and Obi to discuss their possible return to the PDP ahead of the 2027 elections.
As the PDP navigates its internal dynamics and prepares for the 2027 elections, the party’s zoning committee will play a crucial role in determining its presidential candidate. With various stakeholders weighing in on the potential return of Jonathan and Obi, the party’s future hangs in the balance.
