Former President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has reaffirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and pledged to play an active role in its affairs as the party prepares for the 2027 general elections, the party’s National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), has stated.
The announcement followed a closed‑door meeting in Abuja on Tuesday between Jonathan and Turaki‑led members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), along with former governors, state party chairmen, members of the Board of Trustees and other senior party figures.
Turaki said the visit was primarily to introduce the newly elected NWC to the former president and to brief him on efforts to stabilise and reposition the party ahead of upcoming elections, including the off‑season governorship polls in Ekiti and Osun states this year and the general elections in 2027.
According to Turaki, Jonathan reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, stressing that he remains a card‑carrying member and has assured party leaders that he will be even more engaged in party affairs going forward.
“He assured us that he is still a card‑carrying member of the Peoples Democratic Party, remains active, and will be even more active in the activities and affairs of the PDP,” Turaki said.
Turaki described Jonathan’s remarks as reassuring and encouraging, emphasising that the former president feels a strong sense of obligation to the party because of what it gave him throughout his political career.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for party leaders to solicit Jonathan’s guidance and counsel on navigating ongoing internal challenges and legal matters confronting the PDP. While specific recommendations from Jonathan were not disclosed publicly, Turaki noted they would help shape the party’s next steps.
Context: PDP’s Internal Dynamics Ahead of 2027
The PDP has been grappling with factional tensions over leadership since its last national convention in November 2025. Two rival factions have emerged, each laying claim to the national chairmanship post, with Turaki leading one faction that has gained support from several governors and party elders.
Efforts to bring all sides together are underway as the party seeks a united front going into off‑season elections this year and the high‑stakes 2027 polls. Turaki has reiterated that the PDP aims to be a level playing field for all members and the most credible platform to contest and win elections in Nigeria.
Looking Forward
While Jonathan has not publicly declared any intention to contest the presidency in 2027, his visible support and renewed engagement with the PDP leadership have fuelled ongoing speculation about his political future within the party. For now, Jonathan’s emphasis remains on strengthening the party’s unity and electoral prospects.
