The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is reportedly considering a major shake-up ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with internal efforts underway to bring former President Goodluck Jonathan back into the race—should Peter Obi fail to return to the party.
According to The Guardian, the move is being driven by concerns within PDP leadership over Obi’s next political steps and the perceived instability of the Labour Party and its coalition.
A group of influential party stakeholders has been tasked with persuading Jonathan to accept an automatic presidential ticket, a plan gaining traction as strategic discussions intensify behind closed doors. Party insiders believe Jonathan’s candidacy could provide a more stable and predictable path, especially given his eligibility for only one term, which aligns with PDP’s long-term internal power rotation strategy.
Former Information Minister Prof. Jerry Gana, speaking on national television, acknowledged Obi’s performance in the 2023 presidential election but stressed that the PDP could still present a stronger candidate. He also argued that Obi would be more effective under the PDP banner due to the party’s established presence in northern Nigeria.
Meanwhile, several top PDP chieftains are openly backing Jonathan’s return. Their key argument is that he poses less political uncertainty than Obi, whose promise to serve only one term is seen as less guaranteed.
A member of the PDP Board of Trustees, speaking anonymously, revealed that some northern power brokers within the party are strongly advocating for Jonathan’s return, viewing it as a continuation of his unfinished agenda.
Private strategy meetings regarding Jonathan’s possible comeback were reportedly held recently in The Gambia, where party leaders discussed electoral strategy, campaign funding, and the party’s future direction.
In a related development, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed had earlier declared that he would not contest in 2027 if Jonathan decides to run. In 2024, he publicly stated his willingness to step aside in deference to the former president, whom he described as a mentor.
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On the other hand, key allies of Peter Obi have dismissed the idea of his return to the PDP under its current structure. One of them, Dr. Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh, noted that the party is still grappling with internal disunity and should focus on resolving its issues before expecting Obi’s comeback.
He suggested that any substantive conversation about Obi rejoining the PDP should wait until after the party’s elective convention slated for November 2025.
As 2027 draws closer, PDP appears torn between two influential figures—both of whom carry different political baggage, but also hold the potential to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
