
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced that while it remains open to the return of former President Goodluck Jonathan and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, it will not actively seek their participation in the contest for the party’s 2027 presidential ticket.
During a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, addressed the swirling rumors regarding a possible return of both political figures to the PDP. He emphasized that the decision to run for office rests with them, and it is up to journalists to inquire directly about their ambitions.
“I tell you this: today, this party has many very qualified, exceedingly talented governors who are capable of stepping up to become president of this country,” Ologunagba remarked, indicating the PDP’s confidence in its internal talent.
He specifically responded to speculation surrounding Jonathan and Obi. “Is Jonathan contesting? Ask him. I don’t speak for President Jonathan. You have access to him, so ask him directly. It’s not for me to speculate. That’s a product of your imagination. Also, are we in talks with Obi? I don’t understand why you’re asking that. You should ask Obi; I’m not the one communicating with him,” he stated.
Ologunagba clarified that while the PDP welcomes both leaders if they choose to return, the party will not go out of its way to invite anyone to take its ticket.
This statement from the PDP comes amid ongoing political maneuvering and discussions surrounding alliances as the 2027 elections approach. The party is in the process of strategizing to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighted by its recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, which is a preparatory step for the National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15 in Ibadan.