The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) central leadership has denounced the submission of former President Goodluck Jonathan as a 2027 presidential candidate [1].
This internal conflict threatens to fracture the party's unity ahead of the next general election, as two opposing wings fight for control over the nomination process.
The dispute began when the Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the party submitted Jonathan's name to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) [1]. The PDP central leadership described the submission as "illegal and worthless," a party spokesperson said [1].
According to reports, the Turaki faction cleared Jonathan for the 2027 race on May 19, 2026 [2] during a screening exercise held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja [3]. However, some reports indicate that this clearance occurred without a formal screening process [2].
Kabiru Turaki, leader of the faction, said the group would move forward with its plans despite the backlash from the party's national wing. "We will hold a special convention on Saturday to ratify former President Goodluck Jonathan as our candidate for 2027," Turaki said [1].
The Turaki faction argues that their move is a necessary step to position Jonathan for the 2027 presidency [1]. Conversely, the national leadership maintains that the faction's unilateral action bypasses established party rules, and lacks legal standing [1].
This struggle for legitimacy highlights a deep divide within the PDP, as the party faces the challenge of reconciling its internal factions before the official election cycle begins. The outcome of the Turaki faction's planned convention may further complicate the party's relationship with INEC.
“"The submission is illegal and worthless."”
The clash between the PDP central leadership and the Turaki faction indicates a significant crisis of authority within one of Nigeria's major political parties. By attempting to bypass standard party protocols and submit a candidate directly to INEC, the Turaki faction is challenging the legitimacy of the national executive. This instability could weaken the party's overall competitiveness in 2027 or lead to a formal split, potentially altering the electoral landscape.
