Fresh cracks have emerged within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as top leaders disagree over who should fly the party’s flag in the 2027 presidential election.
Daily Trust reports that some party leaders allegedly loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike want former Anambra governor Peter Obi, while another bloc is backing former President Goodluck Jonathan. A third group is quietly pushing for Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde.
As the battle heats up, the PDP on Monday inaugurated a 110-member organising committee to prepare for its national convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan.
“This committee will oversee preparations and ensure a smooth exercise,” PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba said.
The committee is chaired by Adamawa State governor Ahmadu Fintiri, with Osun governor Ademola Adeleke as deputy chairman. Enugu governor Peter Mbah will serve as secretary.
Multiple PDP insiders say the real tension centres on whether the party should return Jonathan, entice Obi back from the Labour Party, or promote a serving governor like Makinde as a fresh face.
“Many want Jonathan because he is easy to sell nationwide and has only one term left, which the North will find acceptable. But Wike’s men are against him. They are pushing Obi instead to block Jonathan,” a senior PDP source told Daily Trust.
Former Jigawa governor Sule Lamido openly declared support for Jonathan, saying: “I do not see a better alternative than Jonathan if he comes to the PDP.”
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PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi agreed.
“Even the North is more determined than the South to get him back,” he said.
Abdullahi also called Obi “a valuable asset” who would be welcomed back to the party.
However, another party leader, Segun Showunmi, insisted that all aspirants must go through primaries.
“Nobody should deceive themselves, the PDP will conduct primaries, and anyone qualified can contest,” he said.
Analyst Dr Jide Ojo urged the PDP to fix its internal crisis first.
“Right now, no matter who they present, they will fail,” Ojo warned.
He also doubted Jonathan and Obi’s current strength, saying, “Elections are not won when you have no political base.”
With the convention still months away, the PDP appears headed for a fierce battle over its 2027 presidential ticket — one that could reshape the opposition’s chances against the ruling APC.