The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, has declared that the party’s 2027 presidential ticket remains open to former President Goodluck Jonathan and any other qualified aspirant from the South.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, January 16, 2026, Turaki emphasised the PDP’s commitment to zoning the presidency to the South in 2027 as part of efforts to promote equity, national unity, and fairness in Nigeria’s political system.
“The PDP presidential ticket in 2027 is open to all qualified Nigerians from the South, including our former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, should he indicate interest. We are not closing the door on anyone. The party will conduct a free, fair, transparent, and credible primary to produce our candidate,” Turaki stated.
He added: “Zoning is a principle that has served our democracy well. The South deserves the opportunity to produce the next president after eight years of northern leadership. Dr. Jonathan is a respected statesman with proven leadership credentials, and if he chooses to run, he will be welcome to contest.”
The chairman’s statement comes amid growing speculation that former President Jonathan, who governed from 2010 to 2015, may consider a comeback bid in 2027. Jonathan has remained largely silent on his political future since leaving office, though he has been active in peace advocacy and international observer missions.
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Turaki also used the opportunity to call on all PDP members and stakeholders to close ranks, resolve internal differences, and focus on building a united front capable of wresting power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
“The PDP is the only credible alternative to the APC. But we must first put our house in order. No more division, no more factionalism. Let us work together to rescue Nigeria,” he urged.
The declaration has already sparked reactions across the political landscape, with some PDP chieftains welcoming the openness while others argue the party should prioritise younger, more dynamic candidates from the South.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
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