By Franklin Adole
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally opened its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, declaring that any qualified southerner — including former President Goodluck Jonathan — is eligible to contest, as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar warned opposition elements within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) against internal divisions that could weaken the coalition.
The PDP’s position was disclosed on Tuesday in Abuja by the party’s National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), following a high-level meeting between party leaders and former Vice President Namadi Sambo. Turaki said the party was repositioned, united, and determined to reclaim power at the national level.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Turaki said Sambo reaffirmed his continued membership of the PDP and pledged support for efforts aimed at strengthening party unity, internal democracy, and electoral competitiveness ahead of future elections.
Responding to questions on speculations surrounding a possible 2027 presidential bid by former President Jonathan, Turaki said the PDP had already taken a decision to zone its presidential ticket to the South, stressing that the process of selecting the party’s flag bearer would be open, transparent, and fair.
“As I have always said, we in the PDP have taken a decision to zone our presidential ticket to the southern part of this country,” Turaki said. “For now, we do not know who may emerge as our candidate, even though we know those who will not be our candidates. It is open to every member of the PDP who is living in southern Nigeria or of southern Nigeria descent.”
He added that the process would be equitable and designed to create a level playing field for all aspirants, as the party works to rebuild its national appeal.
Meanwhile, in a related development within the opposition camp, Atiku Abubakar issued a warning against internal attacks among members of the ADC-led coalition, saying such divisions only serve the interests of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a post on his official X handle, Atiku cautioned supporters against trading insults between himself and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, describing the trend as harmful to opposition unity and Nigeria’s democratic future.
“Those who insult Peter Obi or myself do not have the best interests of the leaders, the coalition under the ADC, or the country at heart,” Atiku said.
According to him, internal discord within the opposition only strengthens the APC. “The only persons who benefit from such a civil war are the APC urban bandits who want to maintain the satanic status quo,” he wrote.
Atiku stressed the need for solidarity among opposition figures and supporters, insisting that unity remained the strongest weapon against the ruling party.
“We are better together,” he said, renewing his call for cohesion ahead of future political engagements.
The twin developments highlight ongoing realignments within Nigeria’s opposition space, as parties position themselves for the 2027 general elections amid debates over zoning, leadership, and coalition unity.