The Peoples Democratic Party has announced the affirmation of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, following decisions reached at its Special National Convention held in Abuja on Saturday.
In a communiqué issued after the convention and signed by Interim National Working Committee spokesperson Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party said stakeholders unanimously endorsed Jonathan as its flag bearer after a motion was moved and seconded during the gathering.
According to the party, a formal presentation and flag-off ceremony for the former president’s candidacy will be announced at a later date.
PDP Alleges Venue Intimidation
The PDP alleged that its planned convention at A Class Event Centre faced disruption after the venue’s management reportedly withdrew access despite an existing booking and full payment.
The party claimed the decision followed alleged threats from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning that the facility could face sanctions if it hosted the event.
According to the statement, security agencies had been notified of the convention in line with legal requirements, and preparations had already commenced before the reported cancellation.
The PDP further alleged that security operatives were deployed around the venue on the eve of the event, restricting access to the area.
Decision to Avoid Confrontation
Party leaders said an emergency meeting involving members of the Board of Trustees, Interim National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, state chairmen, candidates, and other stakeholders was convened to assess the situation.
Following deliberations, the party said it decided against confronting security personnel or attempting to force access to the venue.
According to the communiqué, elder statesmen within the party advised members to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could escalate tensions, urging them instead to focus on the electoral process.
Criticism of Federal Government
The PDP used the occasion to criticize what it described as the increasing use of state power to suppress opposition activities.
The party alleged that attempts to frustrate its convention reflected growing intolerance for opposition politics and warned that such actions could undermine democratic governance if left unchecked.
It further claimed that the challenges encountered by the party demonstrated its perceived strength as a political opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections.
Call for Political Tolerance
The party called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to help reduce political tensions in the country and ensure that democratic freedoms, including the right of political parties to assemble and conduct internal activities, are protected.
PDP leaders also urged members nationwide to remain united and committed to the party’s objectives as preparations intensify for the next general election.
Ready for 2027
Concluding its deliberations, the convention declared the PDP “united, prepared, and fully mobilised” for the 2027 elections, charging its Interim National Working Committee to begin the necessary processes for the party’s participation in the polls.
The party also directed its leadership to continue engaging local and international audiences on what it described as challenges facing opposition politics in Nigeria, while reaffirming its commitment to pursuing political change through democratic means.
