PDP Faction Endorses Goodluck Jonathan For 2027 Presidency Amid Convention Disruption
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has emerged as the presidential candidate of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general election.
Jonathan’s endorsement was announced on Saturday during a Special National Convention organised in Abuja by a PDP faction led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), despite opposition from the party’s mainstream leadership.
The convention faced significant disruptions after security personnel barricaded the original venue, the A-Class Event Centre, forcing organisers to relocate their activities to the faction’s operational office in Area 10, Garki.
Despite the setback, party leaders proceeded with the exercise and presented a Certificate of Return to Jonathan in absentia. The certificate was received on his behalf by former House of Representatives member, Fred Agbedi.
The event later descended into chaos after suspected hoodlums reportedly invaded the venue and attacked participants shortly after factional leaders returned for an engagement with security personnel stationed at the centre.
The incident forced party officials, supporters and journalists to flee for safety before security operatives restored order.
Addressing supporters, Turaki accused unnamed political interests of attempting to frustrate democratic processes through intimidation and abuse of power.
He maintained that the faction’s actions were in line with court rulings and provisions of the PDP constitution, insisting that the convention was legitimate.
Also speaking, elder statesman and PDP founding member, Prof. Jerry Gana, expressed concern over what he described as shrinking democratic space in the country.
Gana criticised the heavy security presence around the venue and questioned the independence of democratic institutions, warning against actions capable of undermining political freedoms.
The convention eventually ratified Jonathan’s candidature through a voice vote moved by party leaders and stakeholders present at the gathering.
However, the Nyesom Wike-backed leadership of the PDP distanced itself from the exercise, insisting that former Cross River State senator, Sandy Onor, remains the recognised presidential candidate of the party.
The development further highlights the lingering leadership crisis within the PDP as rival factions continue to battle for control of the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Contact: justnewsonly1@gmail.com
