A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki has ratified former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, despite disruptions that forced a last-minute relocation of its convention venue.
The faction had originally scheduled its special national convention at the A-Class Park and Event Centre in Abuja. However, access to the venue was reportedly blocked by security personnel after the Federal Capital Territory Administration directed event centres to deal only with political party leadership recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Following the disruption, delegates and party officials relocated to the faction’s secretariat in Area 10, Garki, Abuja, where the convention proceeded and Jonathan’s nomination was formally ratified.
Jonathan was not present at the gathering. His Certificate of Return was instead received on his behalf by Fred Agbedi, a lawmaker from Bayelsa State and longtime ally of the former president.
The convention reportedly lasted less than 20 minutes and was attended by prominent figures aligned with the Turaki-led faction, including Jerry Gana and Adolphus Wabara.
The development deepens the leadership crisis within the PDP, as rival factions continue to lay claim to the party’s structure and presidential ticket. The faction backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike is recognized by INEC, according to reports.
As of Saturday, Jonathan had not publicly commented on the nomination or confirmed whether he would accept the ticket.
The latest move adds another layer of uncertainty to Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections, with legal and organizational disputes continuing to shape the fortunes of several major political parties.
