TDThe Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cleared a total of 12 aspirants for its presidential and governorship primaries, while granting a special waiver to former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The announcement was made at the end of the screening exercise conducted by the National Screening Committee led by Dr. Mu’azu Babangida, which sat in Abuja.
The waiver for Jonathan is significant, as it formally paves the way for his return to frontline politics under the PDP banner, despite earlier speculation about his eligibility.
State-Level Screening Updates
Across the country, PDP screening committees have been conducting parallel exercises for aspirants at state secretariats:
- Taraba State: The committee in Jalingo screened aspirants for Senate, House of Representatives, and State Assembly seats. All qualified candidates were cleared ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- Nasarawa State: Architect Mohammed Jafaru Ibrahim, FNIA, a governorship aspirant, was cleared and issued a provisional certificate.
- Delta State: The committee chaired by Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke commenced screening of aspirants for legislative seats. Among those cleared was Chief Onyia Ejiofor, contesting for the Senate.
- Kebbi State: Barrister Abdullahi Ibrahim Manga, a governorship aspirant, was screened and issued a provisional certificate.
- Akwa Ibom State: The committee led by Chief Eddy Olafeso began its sitting, with gubernatorial aspirant Engr. Emem Samuel Coffie cleared and issued a provisional certificate.
- Bayelsa State: The committee chaired by Hon. Henry Beedie screened and cleared sitting lawmakers Hon. Fred Agbedi and Hon. Ebikaki Enenimiete Maria, both contesting for Senate. They were issued provisional certificates alongside other aspirants for various offices.
- Imo State: The screening exercise went smoothly, with aspirants across Senate, House of Representatives, and State Assembly successfully cleared.
Implications of Jonathan’s Waiver
The waiver granted to Jonathan has sparked renewed interest in PDP’s internal dynamics.
Party insiders suggest that his return could reshape alliances ahead of the primaries, especially given his national stature and past experience as Nigeria’s president.
Analysts note that the PDP’s decision reflects a broader strategy to consolidate its ranks and present strong contenders against the ruling party in 2027.
The clearance of aspirants across multiple states signals readiness to field candidates at all levels of the election.
For now, Jonathan’s waiver stands as the headline development.
It positions him once again at the center of Nigeria’s political discourse as the PDP prepares for a decisive contest in 2027.
