Nigeria TV Info

 2027: PDP’s alleged shortlisting of Jonathan, Obi, Makinde raises dust

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing renewed internal tensions after reports that the party has been “shortlisting” former President Goodluck Jonathan, ex-Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as potential contenders for its 2027 ticket. The story has triggered debate across the party and the wider political class.

Several PDP leaders and interest blocs reacted quickly. Some senior figures say the naming of the three Southerners reflects a search for an electable consensus candidate; others see it as kite-flying or a destabilising leak that fuels factionalism ahead of primary season. The party itself has said more aspirants are positioning quietly for the ticket, signalling that the list is far from closed.

Critics inside the party warn the Jonathan option could be used as a “spoiler” or a tactical play that risks deepening regional divides, while supporters argue Jonathan’s national profile still commands respect in key constituencies. Observers say the Jonathan discussion has already split some South-South PDP ranks.

Peter Obi’s mention — given his recent national following after the 2023 campaign — has provoked pushback from both traditional PDP powerbrokers and the Obidient grassroots, who view Obi as an independent force rather than a party-apportioned candidate. Some Obidient activists have publicly rejected efforts to fold Obi back into mainstream party structures.

Seyi Makinde’s emergence in the conversation is read by analysts as the PDP looking for a consensus Southern governor with executive credentials and cross-regional appeal; Makinde’s technocratic record makes him an attractive compromise candidate to some delegates.

What this means practically: the PDP must manage competing ambitions and narratives if it hopes to run a united primary. Several Northern and Southern aspirants have already signalled they’ll contest the primary, and any perceived imposition of a shortlist could provoke lawsuits, walkouts, or parallel congresses that weaken the party’s cohesion ahead of 2027.

Looking ahead, expect (1) intensified internal lobbying and media campaigns by backers of each named figure, (2) statements from the named personalities clarifying their intentions, and (3) a possible formal response from the PDP national working committee to calm the row or deny an official shortlist. The primary calendar and the party’s screening rules will be decisive in shaping the outcome.

— Sources: reports and analyses from Vanguard, DailyTrust, DailyPost, Punch, Ripples and other Nigerian outlets.

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