The Digest:
A reported shortlist of potential presidential candidates for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2027 elections has triggered internal tension and debate. The names of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde are said to be under consideration, prompting concerns about regional balance and party unity.
Key Points:
- The PDP recently zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, fueling speculation about candidate selection.
- Party officials deny an official shortlist, calling the names “speculation” amid ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations.
- Northern presidential aspirant Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim warned against using Jonathan as a “spoiler” to edge out other candidates.
- The party’s deputy national legal adviser emphasized that the focus remains on reorganizing the PDP before primaries.
- Internal critics argue that the party must avoid repeating the “mistakes of 2015” by sidelining competent Northern aspirants.
- The PDP aims to conduct a free and fair primary to demonstrate its commitment to internal democracy.
- The final candidate will come from the South-South, South-East, or South-West, as per the zoning agreement.
Sources: Vanguard News
