PDP screening committee grants Goodluck Jonathan automatic clearance for 2027 presidential race, sparking political reactions across parties
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has granted former President Goodluck Jonathan automatic clearance to contest the 2027 presidential election under its platform, following a screening exercise conducted in Abuja on Tuesday.
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The development was disclosed by the Tanimu Turaki (SAN)-led interim factional National Working Committee screening panel, which also reviewed 12 governorship aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Chairman of the screening committee, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, represented by former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, confirmed that Jonathan was granted a waiver due to his extensive political experience, which includes service as deputy governor, governor, vice president and president.
According to the committee, the waiver effectively positions Jonathan as the party’s sole presidential aspirant, with officials stating that no further screening was required for his candidacy.
The announcement has triggered strong political reactions, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) describing Jonathan’s potential return as a major development that could reshape political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections.
The ADC argued that the former president’s entry into the race would force major political blocs, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), to reassess their strategies in what is expected to be a highly competitive election cycle.
Within the PDP, former presidential aide Umar Sani also claimed that Jonathan had already obtained a nomination form, suggesting that internal consultations were ongoing regarding his possible comeback to active politics.
Sani maintained that Jonathan’s supporters believe the former president remains a strong national figure, citing public nostalgia for his administration and growing political realignments within opposition circles.
The PDP screening committee further noted that other aspirants across various positions are still undergoing evaluation, while affirming that the party remains committed to internal democratic processes.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president between 2010 and 2015, has remained largely active in international diplomatic and peace-building roles since leaving office after the 2015 election.
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His possible return to the presidential race has intensified national debate, with analysts suggesting it could significantly alter alliances and voter sentiment ahead of 2027.
