The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Turaki is set to screen former President Goodluck Jonathan as its sole presidential aspirant ahead of the party’s primaries for the 2027 general elections.
The faction disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, announcing that the screening of aspirants for various elective positions would begin on Tuesday at 10 a.m.
According to the party, a total of 2,122 aspirants for state Houses of Assembly, 748 House of Representatives hopefuls, 198 senatorial aspirants, 112 governorship contenders and one presidential aspirant are expected to undergo screening.
Jonathan: Lone Presidential Aspirant
Although the statement did not officially mention the identity of the sole presidential aspirant, a source within the party confirmed that the former president is the only contender expected to appear before the screening panel.
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Efforts to reach the party’s spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, for clarification were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
Sambo, Jang, Bode George on Screening Panel
The PDP faction also released the names of members of the 14-man screening committee approved by its National Executive Committee, NEC, during its 104th meeting.
Former Vice President Namadi Sambo, former Plateau State governor Jonah Jang and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Ikimi are among those listed on the panel.
Other members include Olabode George, Babangida Aliyu, Maryam Ciroma, Zainab Maina, Josephine Anenih, Abdul Bulama, Esther Uduehi, Tony Aziegbemi, Sunday Solari and Anicho Okoro, who will serve as administrative secretary.
Jonathan Yet to Declare Interest Publicly
The renewed calls for Jonathan to return to active presidential politics intensified earlier this month after a group known as the Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan staged a rally at his Abuja residence, urging him to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The former president, however, said he would consult widely before making a final decision on his political future.
The PDP faction stated that the screening exercise is being conducted in line with the party’s timetable and guidelines for the 2027 elections.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.