The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki has affirmed former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election following a meeting of party stakeholders in Abuja on Saturday.
According to resolutions released after what the party described as its Special National Convention, party leaders, members of its interim leadership, state chairmen, candidates and other stakeholders met after the planned venue for the convention could not be used. The party said it had notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies about its activities and had secured a venue for the event before the arrangement was disrupted.
The PDP alleged that the management of the event centre cancelled its booking after receiving threats that the facility could face sanctions if the event went ahead. The party also claimed that a large deployment of police officers blocked access to the area where the venue is located.
Following an emergency meeting, party leaders said they decided against confronting security personnel at the venue.
The party said the decision was influenced by appeals from elder statesmen who urged restraint and advised against any physical confrontation.
The PDP said that despite the disruption, stakeholders proceeded with what it described as the main purpose of the gathering.
“Since the main activity of the day is the affirmation of President Goodluck Jonathan, the stakeholders continued with the plan and President Goodluck Jonathan was unanimously affirmed, after a motion was duly moved and seconded, as the presidential candidate and flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party for the 2027 presidential election.”
The party added that a formal presentation and flag-off ceremony for Jonathan would be held at a later date.
The PDP also criticised what it described as the use of government power against the party and accused officials of attempting to prevent its activities.
It further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reduce political tensions and urged its members to remain committed to the party as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
The resolutions were issued under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki following the meeting in Abuja.
Ademide Adebayo
