The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the endorsement of former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, following what it described as disruptions to its Special National Convention in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Comrade Ini Ememobong, the National Publicity Secretary of the party’s Interim National Working Committee, the PDP alleged that its convention was frustrated by security interference and pressure reportedly mounted on the organisers and venue managers.
The party stated that it had duly informed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant security agencies about the event and had booked the A-Class Event Centre in Abuja for the exercise.
However, it alleged that the venue management later withdrew the booking after receiving threats from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who reportedly warned that the facility’s Certificate of Occupancy could be revoked if the event was held there.
The PDP further claimed that officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) issued warnings to business owners against hosting what it termed “unapproved political gatherings.”
It also alleged that a heavy deployment of over 20 truckloads of police officers was stationed around the venue on the eve of the convention, effectively blocking access to the premises.
Following an emergency meeting involving the party’s Board of Trustees, Interim National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, state chairmen, elected candidates, and other stakeholders, the PDP said it resolved not to engage in any confrontation with security agencies.
According to the party, elder statesmen within its ranks advised against any form of resistance, urging members to remain calm and focus on political strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party added that a formal unveiling and flag-off ceremony for Jonathan’s candidacy would be scheduled at a later date.
The PDP strongly condemned what it described as the misuse of state institutions, particularly by officials of the current administration, warning that such actions could threaten Nigeria’s democratic process if not addressed.
It further argued that the incident reflected a shrinking space for opposition politics in the country, accusing the ruling party of attempting to weaken political competition.
The opposition party also called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure a fair political environment where all parties can operate freely within the law.
Reaffirming its preparedness for the 2027 elections, the PDP urged its members to remain united and committed, directing its Interim National Working Committee to intensify mobilisation efforts and raise both local and international awareness about what it described as threats to opposition politics in Nigeria.