The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has categorically denied rumors that it is courting former President Goodluck Jonathan to run for the presidency in 2027 under its banner.
Ibrahim Abdullahi, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, clarified the party’s position during an interview with BBC Hausa. Abdullahi debunked claims suggesting that the PDP had offered Jonathan its presidential ticket or invited him to join the race.
“The report that PDP has issued its presidential ticket to former President Goodluck Jonathan or invited him to contest the 2027 presidential election is false,” Abdullahi stated. “A journalist simply asked for my opinion on Jonathan, considering reports suggesting he is being urged to run for the presidency.”
Abdullahi explained that while Jonathan remains constitutionally eligible to contest, as he still has one term left, this does not imply that the PDP is actively pursuing him.
“Jonathan is eligible to run because, as a Nigerian, the law allows him to contest. He still has one more term left. However, that doesn’t mean the PDP has approached him or offered him the ticket,” he clarified.
The PDP spokesman emphasized that the party, which currently has 12 governors and numerous other qualified politicians, is not lacking in capable candidates. Furthermore, he referenced comments made by Dame Patience Jonathan, the former First Lady, who previously dismissed the possibility of her husband returning to Aso Villa.
“His wife made it clear he has no plans to run for the presidency again. How then can we consider him?” Abdullahi questioned.
He concluded by stating that the PDP remains focused on its existing pool of eligible candidates and has not initiated any discussions with Jonathan regarding the 2027 election.
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