RismadarVoice Reporters, May 30, 2026
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has affirmed former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, despite what it described as attempts to frustrate its Special National Convention in Abuja.
The party announced the decision in a communiqué issued at the end of its Special National Convention held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, and signed by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong.
According to the PDP, the convention was initially scheduled to be held at the A Class Event Centre in Abuja after the party had fulfilled all requirements, including notifying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant security agencies, as well as paying for the venue.
However, the party alleged that the management of the event centre later withdrew access to the facility following threats from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The PDP claimed the venue owners were warned that their Certificate of Occupancy could be revoked and the facility demolished if the event was allowed to proceed.
The party also alleged that security operatives were deployed around the venue on the eve of the convention, effectively restricting access to the facility.
Following an emergency meeting involving members of the Board of Trustees, Interim National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, state chairmen, governorship and National Assembly candidates, and other stakeholders, the PDP said it decided against confronting security personnel at the venue.
The party said elder statesmen within its ranks advised against any action that could lead to a physical confrontation, urging members to demonstrate restraint and focus on winning future elections.
Despite the setback, the PDP said it proceeded with what it described as the main agenda of the convention—the affirmation of Jonathan as the party’s presidential flagbearer for the 2027 election.
“President Goodluck Jonathan was unanimously affirmed, after a motion was duly moved and seconded, as the presidential candidate and flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party for the 2027 presidential election,” the communiqué stated.
The party added that a formal presentation and flag-off ceremony for the candidate would be announced at a later date.
The PDP further condemned what it described as the misuse of state power against opposition parties, warning that such actions could undermine democratic governance and fuel concerns about the emergence of a one-party state.
It called on President Bola Tinubu to reduce political tensions and ensure a level playing field for all political actors ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party urged its members to remain united and committed to its objectives, insisting that it is fully prepared to participate in the next general election.
“With the affirmation of our presidential candidate, we are now ready for the 2027 general elections,” the communiqué stated, adding that the party remains “united, prepared, and fully mobilised” to pursue power through democratic means.
