2027: Potential PDP vice presidential candidates emerge

2027: Potential PDP vice presidential candidates emerge

Following its recent zoning of the presidential ticket to the South, the party now considers six prominent figures—three from the South and three from the North—as potential candidates for the top two positions.

In the South, former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde have emerged as leading contenders for the presidential nomination.

Jonathan, with his extensive experience and previous tenure, is seen as a unifying figure within the party.

Obi, known for his grassroots support and appeal among younger voters, brings a fresh perspective.

Makinde offers a blend of regional influence and administrative experience.

To balance the ticket, the PDP is considering northern politicians for the vice-presidential slot.

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, former Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo, and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal are among those being evaluated.

Each brings distinct strengths to the table: Mohammed with his governance experience, Dankwambo with his technocratic background, and Tambuwal with his political acumen and network.

The selection of both the presidential and vice-presidential candidates is expected to be influenced by factors such as regional balance, party unity, and the ability to appeal to a broad electorate.

A Jonathan–Mohammed ticket would focus on unity, Obi paired with Tambuwal could bridge grassroots energy and Northern influence, while a Makinde–Dankwambo alliance would represent generational renewal and technocratic balance.

As the PDP moves closer to its convention, the decision on who carries the flag in the South and who balances the ticket from the North will play a decisive role in determining whether the party can mount a strong challenge in 2027.