PDP divided over choice of presidential candidate
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing internal disagreements as leaders debate who should represent the party in the 2027 presidential election
Party members are split between former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, and Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde.
Sources within the party revealed that supporters of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike favour Obi, while another group backs Jonathan, believing he can provide the strongest challenge to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
A third faction supports Makinde as a compromise candidate.
In the midst of these tensions, the PDP launched a 110-member committee on Monday to organize its 2025 national convention.
The convention, scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, is expected to shape the party’s direction and influence the selection of its 2027 candidate.
The committee is led by Adamawa State governor Ahmadu Fintiri, with Osun State governor Ademola Adeleke and former minister Kabir Turaki (SAN) as deputies, and Enugu State governor Peter Mbah serving as secretary.
Senator Adolphus Wabara represents the party’s Board of Trustees. Party insiders say the committee’s composition reflects efforts to balance interests amid rising debates.
The interest in Jonathan and Obi is seen by many as a strategic move.
Both leaders are viewed as potential one-term presidents who could allow power to shift to the North in 2031.
Jonathan, limited to a single term if he returns, lost the 2015 election to the APC, while Obi, who contested in 2023 under the Labour Party, has repeatedly pledged to serve only one term.
Observers say the push for Jonathan or Obi reflects the ambitions of different party factions.
Some believe Jonathan’s nationwide appeal and single-term possibility make him an attractive candidate, while Wike’s supporters see Obi as a way to counter Jonathan’s influence.
The divisions go beyond personalities, with party leaders acknowledging a deeper struggle over control of the PDP.
Former Jigawa governor Sule Lamido openly supports Jonathan, while others argue that Obi remains a key political asset despite his time outside the party.
Political analysts warn that the PDP’s current divisions may weaken its position.
They noted that internal reconciliation is essential before the party can present a credible candidate.
Analysts also point out challenges such as incumbency and shifting political bases that could affect both Jonathan and Obi if they seek the presidency.
The party is expected to conduct primaries to determine its candidate, ensuring that all aspirants, regardless of influence or past achievements, have an opportunity to contest.
