…Wants Automatic Ticket For Ex-President in 2027
By Yinka Giwa
As Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is seriously considering offering former President Goodluck Jonathan an automatic presidential ticket, a top official of the party has disclosed.
PDP National Financial Secretary, Mr. Daniel Woyengikuro, also confirmed that discussions are ongoing between the party leadership and Jonathan, aimed at bringing him back into active mainstream politics ahead of the crucial polls.
Woyengikuro revealed that Jonathan’s vast political experience, national appeal, and stature as the party’s de facto leader have positioned him as the ideal candidate to lead the PDP’s charge for the presidency in 2027.
“At this critical juncture, who better to lead this party than Goodluck Jonathan? He is not just a former president; he remains the national leader of the PDP. Apart from [former President Olusegun] Obasanjo, no one commands the kind of respect and influence that he does within this party,” Woyengikuro said.
He added that the party is keen on leveraging Jonathan’s leadership to reposition the PDP as a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), while addressing Nigeria’s worsening political and economic crises.
“The country is at a breaking point. We need someone with experience, humility, and national acceptance to salvage this nation. When you look at the Southern Presidency conversation, Jonathan stands head and shoulders above the rest,” he stressed.
Asked whether the PDP is considering granting Jonathan an automatic ticket, Woyengikuro did not mince words:
“For me, that is the direction we should go. I personally support an automatic ticket for him. You can quote me anywhere. We must salvage this party and the country, and Jonathan is the man for the job.”
He further stated that Jonathan’s return to active politics would significantly alter the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections, giving the PDP a strong footing in the race for Aso Rock.
Woyengikuro also praised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, describing him as a rising political star and a unifying figure among Nigeria’s youth and Southern political blocs.
“Governor Makinde is a vibrant leader with the energy and vision to bridge Nigeria’s generational gap. These are the two leaders I stand for — Goodluck Jonathan and Seyi Makinde. Together, they can reposition Nigeria for the better.”
The PDP is expected to ramp up internal consultations in the coming months, as the party leadership fine-tunes its strategy to reclaim power in 2027. Party insiders believe that Jonathan’s potential candidacy could unify various factions and energize the party’s base across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.