The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Tanimu Turaki has officially presented a Certificate of Return to former President Goodluck Jonathan, affirming him as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
The party also explained the sudden change of venue for its planned national convention, where Jonathan’s candidacy was expected to be formally ratified.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the party alleged that the management of the original event centre cancelled its booking after reportedly receiving an invitation and threats from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
According to the statement, the venue operators were allegedly warned that their Certificate of Occupancy could be revoked and the facility demolished if the PDP convention was allowed to proceed there.
The party said its leadership held an emergency meeting and decided against confronting security personnel at the venue or attempting to force access to the facility.
Despite the setback, the PDP confirmed that the convention was successfully held at an alternative location, where delegates ratified Jonathan’s candidacy and formally presented him with his Certificate of Return as the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 presidential election.
The party condemned Wike’s action and urged President Bola Tinubu to call him to order and to avoid actions that may lead to the collapse of democracy in Nigeria.
The PDP added that with the affirmation of Jonathan as its presidential candidate, the party is now ready for the 2027 general elections, and necessary steps will be taken to ensure the party’s full and effective participation in the 2027 polls.
Below is the full statement by the party.
