The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has named former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election at its Special National Convention held on May 30, 2026, in Abuja.
In excerpts from the convention issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the PDP said the decision was reached during the gathering despite what it described as attempts to disrupt the event.
The party said the convention was initially scheduled to hold at the A Class Event Centre in Abuja, but the venue was later cancelled after its management allegedly came under pressure linked to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
According to the PDP, the event centre management withdrew the booking following alleged threats of revocation of its certificate of occupancy and demolition of the facility if the party proceeded with its programme.
It also alleged that security operatives were deployed late on May 29 to block access roads leading to the venue, forcing motorists to divert and disrupting movement in the area.
Despite the development, the party said its leadership convened an emergency meeting involving members of the Board of Trustees, Interim National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, state chairmen, governorship and National Assembly candidates, as well as other stakeholders.
At the meeting, party leaders reportedly resolved to avoid confrontation and proceed with the political aspects of the convention in a calmer manner.
The PDP said it was at this stage that former President Goodluck Jonathan was unanimously affirmed as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election following a motion moved and seconded by stakeholders.
The party added that formal presentation and flag-off ceremonies for the candidacy would be announced at a later date.
It condemned what it described as the use of state power to intimidate opposition political activities, warning that such actions, if unchecked, could undermine democratic freedoms in the country.
The PDP also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and help de-escalate rising political tensions, urging restraint among political actors.
It urged its members nationwide to remain calm and steadfast, insisting that the party remained united, focused, and fully prepared for the 2027 general elections.
The statement further said the PDP would continue to engage Nigerians and the international community on what it described as threats to opposition participation and democratic space in the country.
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