- The PDP dismissed claims that it invited former President Goodluck Jonathan to run for the 2027 presidential election under its banner
- Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi clarified that discussions about Jonathan’s candidacy have never occurred within the party
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed claims that it invited former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest under its banner in the 2027 presidential election.
Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi clarified the matter during an interview with BBC Hausa. He categorically denied reports suggesting Jonathan was offered the party’s presidential ticket.
Abdullahi explained, “The claim that PDP issued its presidential ticket to former President Goodluck Jonathan or invited him to run in 2027 is false.
During an interview, a journalist asked me about Jonathan running for president due to rumours. I stated he is legally eligible to contest because he still has one term left.”
He added that the PDP values Jonathan as a party member but has no plans to convince him to contest. The party, Abdullahi noted, has several capable leaders, including 12 governors and other prominent politicians, who could vie for the presidency.
Abdullahi also referred to recent comments from Jonathan’s wife. She reportedly said her husband had no intention of running for office again.
“She made it clear he left nothing behind at the Villa to warrant returning to contest,” Abdullahi remarked.
The PDP official emphasized that the party awards its ticket only to those who express genuine interest in running. He concluded that discussions regarding Jonathan’s candidacy had never occurred within the party.