PDP Throws 2027 Presidential Race Open, Restricts Ticket to Southern Aspirants

|By Adejumo Adekunle

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of its National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, has formally opened its presidential contest for the 2027 general election, declaring the race open to all qualified aspirants from southern Nigeria, including former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The decision was announced on Tuesday night at a high-level meeting held at the Abuja residence of former Vice President Namadi Sambo, which drew key party leaders and stakeholders.

Addressing attendees, Turaki said while it was premature to predict who would emerge as the party’s flag bearer, the PDP remained firmly committed to a free, fair and transparent primary process that would allow party members and Nigerians to determine the eventual candidate.

He stressed that the contest would be open to all PDP members of southern Nigerian origin, assuring aspirants of a level playing field throughout the process.

According to him, the party’s zoning position for 2027 places the presidential ticket strictly in the South, a move that effectively clears the path for Jonathan and other prominent southern political figures to seek the party’s nomination.

Turaki further explained that the party’s approach was designed to ensure equity, fairness and internal cohesion as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

Meanwhile, the PDP chairman welcomed recent court rulings that dismissed suits filed by Senator Samuel Anyanwu, a factional National Secretary of the party. He described the judgments as a major boost for the party’s leadership and a validation of its adherence to due process.

Less than 24 hours earlier, the Federal High Court in Abuja had dismissed Anyanwu’s suit seeking official recognition as the PDP’s National Secretary. Justice Mohammed Umar ruled against the claims, further consolidating the authority of the Turaki-led leadership.

The twin court decisions are widely viewed as strengthening the PDP’s internal stability as it positions itself for the 2027 presidential race.