2027: Former President Jonathan, Obi Divide PDP

The protracted conflict within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has further intensified as two factions have emerged, backing different presidential candidates for the 2027 elections.

One group is rallying behind former President Goodluck Jonathan, while another is championing the return of former Anambra Governor Peter Obi to the party.

According to reliable sources within the party, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed is leading the effort to secure Jonathan’s nomination as the party’s candidate.

This move is reportedly driven by the perception that Jonathan would only serve for one term, allowing the presidency to rotate back to the north in accordance with the party’s zoning arrangement.

Notably, the PDP had recently agreed to zone the presidency to the south. Sources close to Jonathan indicate that although he has not made any public declarations, he has not explicitly discouraged the growing support for his potential candidacy.

However, concerns about potential blackmail by the Federal Government, particularly regarding the probe of his wife Patience Jonathan, may pose a challenge to his campaign.

Meanwhile, influential members of the party, particularly younger ones, are advocating for Obi’s return to the PDP, citing his strong chances of winning a presidential election.

Professor Jerry Gana recently stated that Obi would have a greater chance of success than other potential candidates. Despite pressure from the PDP, Obi has not committed to rejoining the party or contesting for the presidency.

In a recent interaction, Governor Mohammed encouraged Obi to return to the PDP, with Obi responding that opposition parties need to unite for the 2027 elections.

Additionally, there are allegations that pro-government forces are exerting pressure on institutions to reject visits from opposition leaders like Obi, as evidenced by his experiences at the University of Calabar and University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Source: The Sun Nigeria but was rejigged.