written by myra (July 27, 2025)

A senior chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Sani, has stated that Northern Nigeria would favor former President Goodluck Jonathan over Peter Obi as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an interview on Trust TV’s Daily Politics program on Saturday, Sani, who served as media aide to former Vice President Namadi Sambo, addressed ongoing speculation about PDP’s possible alliance with Peter Obi and the rumoured comeback of Jonathan.

According to Sani, while Peter Obi—Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flag bearer—is widely regarded for his integrity, Northern leaders would likely support Jonathan due to the constitutional certainty that he can only serve one term if re-elected.

“Between somebody making a promise and somebody who is compelled by the law that he must leave after four years, which one will you take?” Sani questioned.

“Jonathan has a constitutional limit. He must leave office after one term. Obi may promise to stay only one term, but a promise is not binding. It can be broken. For the North, I believe Goodluck Jonathan is the better option.”

Speculations on PDP’s 2027 Presidential Strategy

There have been growing reports that the PDP is exploring the possibility of fielding either Jonathan or forging a political alliance with Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 elections in a bid to reclaim power at the federal level.

Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s President from 2010 to 2015, is eligible to serve only one more term under Nigeria’s constitutional provisions.

Sani’s remarks are seen as a reflection of the strategic calculations within the PDP, especially regarding power rotation, voter appeal in Northern states, and efforts to unify opposition forces against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Calls for Strategic Candidate Selection

Political analysts suggest that the PDP’s final decision on its presidential candidate will depend on internal party dynamics, zoning considerations, and potential alliances with other influential political actors.

With just under two years to the next general election, the PDP is under increasing pressure to rebuild its base, resolve internal divisions, and present a candidate capable of defeating the APC in 2027.

Attribution:
Report by SpringnewsNG Media Limited, July 27, 2025