With about two years until the 2027 presidential election, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is moving to reposition itself for the race by inaugurating both the National Working Committee Zoning Committee and the 2027 Election Zoning Committee in Abuja. The two bodies will oversee the zoning process and preparations for the party’s National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, where 19 new members will be elected into the party’s National Working Committee.
Party sources confirmed that the PDP has decided to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, a move aimed at healing divisions and addressing long-standing concerns over regional representation. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said the party already has a pool of credible presidential contenders, noting that the zoning decision is part of broader restructuring efforts following months of internal crisis and high-profile defections.
The zoning announcement has also renewed discussions about the possible return of former President Goodluck Jonathan and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the PDP. While the party has not formally reached out to either man, some leaders, including Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, have reportedly engaged them privately. Jonathan has remained silent on the matter, while Obi has maintained that he is still with the Labour Party in alliance with the ADC.
Opinions within the PDP are sharply divided over their potential return. Some NEC members argue that Jonathan, who left the party after his 2015 defeat, and Obi, whose defection ahead of the 2023 election hurt the party’s chances, should not be given priority over loyal party members. Others believe that their political experience and national recognition could strengthen the PDP’s chances in 2027, provided they abide by party rules and participate in a fair contest.
Jonathan’s possible candidacy also raises legal questions. A 2018 constitutional amendment bars anyone sworn in twice as President or Governor from seeking the office again. While some PDP leaders say this could limit Jonathan’s eligibility, others argue that his one remaining term could be a political advantage, particularly for northern politicians seeking an eventual return of power to their region.
Beyond the return talks, PDP leaders have also been pushing for internal unity and reconciliation. Figures like former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and former Minister Jerry Gana have urged Jonathan and Obi to rejoin, stressing the need for collective strength ahead of 2027. Still, some party leaders caution that any return must be based on a willingness to follow party processes without seeking preferential treatment.
The PDP’s latest moves come as it seeks to recover from a prolonged period of infighting and defections to the APC and other parties. By zoning the ticket to the South and courting heavyweight politicians, the party hopes to present a united front against the ruling APC and its likely candidate, President Bola Tinubu, in the 2027 race.
