The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally opened its 2027 presidential contest to all qualified aspirants from Southern Nigeria, a decision that effectively clears the way for former President Goodluck Jonathan and other leading southern figures to seek the party’s ticket.
The PDP National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), disclosed this at the weekend during a visit by members of the National Working Committee (NWC) to the Abuja residence of former Vice President Namadi Sambo.
The visit, according to party leaders, was aimed at introducing the new PDP leadership and consolidating internal unity ahead of future electoral battles.
Turaki said the party has resolved to zone its presidential ticket to the South, stressing that while the eventual flag bearer is yet to be known, the direction of the party is clear.
“We in the PDP have taken a decision to zone our presidential ticket to the southern part of this country. For now, we do not know who may emerge as our candidate, even though we know those who will not be our candidates,” he said.
The chairman assured party members and Nigerians that the presidential primaries would be conducted with fairness, transparency and strict adherence to internal democracy, promising a level playing field for all eligible southern aspirants.
“It is open to every PDP member from Southern Nigeria or of southern extraction. The process will be open, transparent, fair and equitable. Nigerians will ultimately decide who becomes our candidate,” Turaki added.
Former Vice President Sambo, who received the delegation, reaffirmed his loyalty to the party and hinted at playing a more active role in its affairs in the coming months.
Beyond the 2027 permutations, the PDP leadership also welcomed a recent judgment of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court delivered by Justice Umar, which dismissed a suit filed by Samuel Anyanwu. Turaki described the ruling as a significant boost to the party’s internal discipline and legal standing.
He disclosed that the party’s legal team is actively handling all pending appeals, with filings being prepared within stipulated timelines. According to him, the PDP is awaiting a decision from the President of the Court of Appeal on whether the consolidated appeals will be heard by a regular or special panel.
Turaki expressed confidence that the party would overcome its legal and political challenges, positioning itself strongly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
