The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reacted to speculations that one out of former President Goodluck Jonathan, former presidential candidate, Peter Obi and Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, could emerge as the flagbearer for the party in the 2027 presidential polls.

With the party yet to select its candidate in the crucial polls in 2027, speculations have emerged, highlighting the individuals that could lead the party into 2027 as they aim to wrestle power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In an interview with Vanguard, PDP Deputy National Legal Adviser, Mr Okechukwu Osuoha said stakeholder consultations are still ongoing with party leaders were holding intense behind-the-scenes negotiations and internal discussions to decide who will emerge as the party’s flagbearer for the next general elections.

According to Moro, other qualified candidates from the South, aside from those highlighted above, could still join the race as consultations progressed.

Alleged shortlists are speculations

Osuoha said: “Those names (Jonathan, Obi, Makinde) you mentioned are still speculations. Right now, what is involved in the party is all about negotiations, and the discussions are going on, people trying to find out who will be the credible or the best candidate.”

He clarified that while public attention currently focuses on the three prominent figures, other potential contenders from across the South were actively engaging stakeholders in private talks aimed at selecting a candidate who could unite the PDP and challenge the ruling party in 2027.

“For now, what I know is more paramount in the party is to put it in order, especially the national convention,” he said.

Osuoha stressed that the national convention would mark the first major step in preparations for 2027 by electing new national officers to lead the party for the next four years.

He added that after the convention, party leaders would shift focus to reducing the number of presidential aspirants, ahead of the primaries.

“It is during that period we will now be able to narrow it down to those who are going to contest. As far as I’m concerned, the party will want to conduct a free and fair primary to maintain transparency and show that when we talk about democracy, we are actually living by example,” Osuoha stated.

He explained further that although several people were expected to declare interest, the PDP’s zoning arrangement would determine who might eventually clinch the ticket.

“Primarily, what will now guide their decision will be the fact that the party has zoned the presidency to the South. So, whoever will contest must come from the South-West, South-East, or South-South,” Osuoha stated.

He emphasised that regional balance and party unity would play key roles in the final choice of candidate, noting that the PDP must secure internal stability before entering the election season.