Reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may have shortlisted former President Goodluck Jonathan, ex-Labour Party candidate Peter Obi, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for its 2027 presidential ticket have stirred controversy.
Northern aspirant Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim warned against using Jonathan as a “spoiler,” stressing he has the right to run but not at the expense of party unity. His camp also cautioned against reducing the contest to ethnic politics or sidelining credible northern contenders.
Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro had earlier named Jonathan, Obi, and Makinde as possible flagbearers. But PDP Deputy National Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha, dismissed talk of a shortlist, saying consultations are ongoing and other southern contenders remain welcome.
Osuoha added that the party’s priority is its national convention to elect new leaders, after which focus will shift to narrowing aspirants. He stressed that the PDP will conduct a free and fair primary, guided by its decision to zone the ticket to the South.
Analysts say the debate underscores tensions over zoning, unity, and the search for a candidate capable of challenging the APC in 2027.