The Digest:
A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, has announced plans to screen former President Goodluck Jonathan on Tuesday, May 19, as its only presidential aspirant for the 2027 election. A 14-member screening committee has been set up, including former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, former Plateau Governor Jonah Jang, and former Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Ikimi. The faction said Jonathan recently completed the party’s fresh digital registration exercise directed by INEC.
Key Points:
- Screening Jonathan as the sole aspirant suggests the faction may be bypassing internal contests.
- The move could deepen the PDP leadership crisis, with other factions likely to reject this arrangement.
- Jonathan’s candidacy could split opposition votes, potentially benefiting the ruling APC.
- Social media reactions show skepticism, with some warning Jonathan not to risk his legacy.
- The faction includes prominent politicians, indicating significant backing within certain PDP circles
