BY CHARLES CHIJIOKE
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is set to screen former President Goodluck Jonathan on Tuesday as the party’s only presidential aspirant for the 2027 election cycle, signaling a potentially dramatic shift in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
The development comes as a faction of the PDP led by Tanimu Turaki, SAN, commenced a broad nationwide screening process involving more than 3,000 aspirants seeking various elective offices ahead of the next general elections.
According to details released by the party, Jonathan is expected to appear before a 14-member screening committee that includes former Vice President Namadi Sambo, former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang, former Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Ikimi, Chief Olabode George, Babangida Aliyu, Maryam Ciroma, Zainab Maina, Josephine Anenih, Dr. Abdul Bulama, Dr. Esther Uduehi, Edo PDP Chairman Tony Aziegbemi, Dr. Sunday Solarium, and Chief Anicho Okoro, who will serve as administrative secretary.
Although the PDP statement only referenced a “sole presidential aspirant,” inquiries reportedly confirmed that the individual is Jonathan.
The latest move follows recent disclosures by the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, who stated that Jonathan had completed a fresh digital registration process with the party under guidelines reportedly linked to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Beyond the presidential race, the PDP announced that 748 House of Representatives aspirants, 198 senatorial hopefuls and 112 governorship aspirants are also scheduled for screening. In addition, 2,122 State House of Assembly aspirants are expected to participate in the exercise across different states.
The party said the screening exercise would commence nationwide on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m., noting that the process aligns with its guidelines and timetable for preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political observers believe Jonathan’s emergence as the sole aspirant, if sustained, could reshape opposition calculations and reignite debate around political realignments ahead of 2027. It may also trigger reactions from rival political blocs already positioning for what is expected to be a highly competitive electoral season.
The development further raises questions over ongoing consultations across political parties and whether Jonathan’s political future could become a rallying point for factions seeking broader coalition arrangements.
Meanwhile, former Imo State Deputy Governor Eze Madumere also reaffirmed his determination to secure victory in the 2027 Senate race for Owerri Zone under the PDP platform.
Madumere expressed confidence in his political strength and support base, insisting he possesses the experience and reach needed for electoral success.
“I have the political reach, capability, capacity to win this election for our great party, the PDP. My name is not a strange name in Imo State,” he said.
He added: “The people know me. They know my track records. They know what I stand for, which represents equity and justice. Be rest assured, I am fully prepared, fully ready, and fully committed to this election. By the grace of God, with the support of our party faithful, stakeholders and the good people of Owerri Zone, victory is assured.”
The unfolding developments are expected to intensify conversations around candidate selection, party unity and the wider battle for political influence ahead of 2027.
Source: Arise News/THISDAY reports.
