The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is considering former president Goodluck Jonathan and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, as potential presidential candidates for the 2027 election.
This was disclosed by Bauchi Gov. Bala Mohammed during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on Thursday night anchored by Seun Okinbaloye.
Mohammed, who described Jonathan as “the most celebrated politician today,” noted that the former president was politically blackmailed before the 2015 election but was later exonerated by the court.
The former FCT minister also stated that Peter Obi, who ran as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, would have the opportunity to be the PDP’s candidate if he rejoined the party.
“But certainly, (former) President Jonathan is one of the candidates we are thinking of, if he joins us and opens his mind to run. And even other people like (former) governor Obi, because if he decides to come to a better platform where there are no encumbrances, he will be given the opportunity too,” Mohammed said.
When asked if PDP governors were in talks with Obi about a potential run for the presidency, Governor Mohammed replied, “Have you not seen him with me? He’s my brother, my friend.”
He added that Obi is one of the most celebrated politicians in the country and that while the party is not making noise, they are “definitely not sleeping” on their options.
Mohammed also mentioned that other prominent southern politicians, such as Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde, are free to vie for the party’s ticket.
He emphasized that the PDP is focused on attracting well-known politicians who will bring value to the party in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
“There are so many politicians. I even had a session with Governor Amaechi. I have not been sleeping. I have to make sure I create a closing-of-rank drive, you know, you know, for people to come and help.”
On the possibility of Amaechi returning to the PDP, the Bauchi governor said: “Well, he’s free to if he wants to come back.”
Persecondnews reported that the PDP had, during its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Monday, August 25, zoned its presidential slot to the Southern part of the country while the national chairmanship position would be retained in the North.
The NEC also affirmed Umar Damagum as its National Chairman.
On the relationship between him and FCT Minister and former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, he said he used to be a good friend.
“We have our differences. I don’t believe in what he believes in now, so we are no longer good friends,” Persecondnews quotes Mohammed as saying.
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