A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party ratified former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate on Saturday.
The Turaki-led group took the decision after a screening exercise. Chairman of the national screening committee Muazu Aliyu announced the outcome. He said the party granted Jonathan a waiver because of his past roles.
Party leaders pointed to Jonathan’s experience. He served as deputy governor, governor, vice president and president. Muazu Aliyu stated, “We did not see any evidence that needed cleaning and therefore the party had given him waiver. In other words, he has been declared and cleared as a candidate of the PDP for the presidential election.”
The faction described Jonathan as the sole aspirant cleared for the presidential ticket. This move came amid ongoing divisions within the PDP.
PDP chieftain Umar Sani confirmed that Jonathan obtained the party’s nomination forms. The ratification deepened tensions between different PDP groups ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Jonathan did not attend the screening but received the waiver along with other senior figures. Party officials said the decision reflected recognition of his leadership record.
The development positioned Jonathan as the preferred flagbearer in this factional structure. Observers noted that it highlighted internal challenges in the opposition party. However, Jonathan has not publicly declared his intention to run. He previously assured party leaders of his commitment to the PDP.
This ratification occurred as the party prepared for future polls. The faction continued efforts to unify its base despite legal and leadership disputes.
