JUST–IN: Jonathan Named PDP Faction’s Presidential Candidate In Absentia

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been named the presidential candidate of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 general election.

Jonathan’s candidacy was ratified on Saturday at a special national convention organised by the faction led by Kabiru Turaki in Abuja.

Although the former president was not present at the event, his certificate of return was received on his behalf by Fred Agbedi, a member of the House of Representatives from Bayelsa State.

The Turaki-led faction had initially planned to hold its convention at the A-Class Park and Event Centre in Abuja.

However, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) had directed owners of hotels and event centres to engage only with political party leaderships recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The PDP faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is currently recognised by INEC.

Earlier on Saturday, police officers blocked access roads leading to the A-Class Park and Event Centre, forcing organisers to relocate the convention.

Party officials later announced that the event would hold at the faction’s office in Area 10, Garki District, where delegates eventually ratified Jonathan’s nomination.

The faction said a date for the formal presentation of the party’s flag to Jonathan would be announced at a later time.