WITH just over two years to the 2027 presidential election, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the inauguration of its National Working Committee (NWC) Zoning Committee and the 2027 Election Zoning Committee in Abuja, while firmly dismissing claims that former President Goodluck Jonathan and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi are in formal talks to return to the party.
The development comes amid sharp divisions within the PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) over moves by some party figures to woo the two political heavyweights back into the fold.
Some NEC members expressed skepticism, recalling how Jonathan distanced himself from the PDP after his 2015 electoral defeat and how Obi’s defection to the Labour Party ahead of the 2023 elections undermined the PDP’s performance.
Others welcomed their possible return but stressed that the PDP already boasts credible presidential hopefuls, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.
A senior PDP official told this newspaper anonymously: “While the party is open to all Nigerians, Jonathan and Obi left at critical moments, and their actions weakened us. If they return, they must follow party rules and accept a level playing field.”
PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, confirmed on Wednesday that the party has not officially approached either Jonathan or Obi.
“Those talking to them are doing so in their personal capacity. We have many capable governors who can lead this country,” he said, adding that the party’s focus is on its November elective convention in Ibadan.
The PDP recently emerged from a prolonged internal crisis that saw notable defections, including former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, ex-Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and others, to rival parties such as the APC and ADC.
Despite these setbacks, the PDP insists it remains the most structured political party in Nigeria, with presence in all wards, local governments, and states.
Even if Jonathan were to run, his eligibility could be contested under the 2018 constitutional amendment barring anyone sworn in twice from holding the presidency or a governorship again. Jonathan, who completed late President Yar’Adua’s term before winning his own in 2011, would be limited to just one more term.
Some insiders believe Jonathan could be a strategic choice if the PDP zones the presidency to the South, while others view him as easier to “market” to voters than other potential contenders. But youth leaders and reformists within the party are pushing for younger, more dynamic candidates.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent meetings with Jonathan in Bayelsa and Obi in Bauchi fueled speculation, though PDP leaders insist these were informal, exploratory discussions.
Ologunagba reiterated that while the PDP welcomes returning members, “100% loyalty” will be demanded.
“We will not tolerate disloyalty. If anyone returns, they must fully submit to our constitution and internal processes,” he warned.
As the PDP inaugurates its zoning panel today, attention will now turn to which geopolitical zones get key positions and ultimately, the 2027 presidential ticket.
For now, the party insists the door is open, but not on anyone’s special terms.