The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under a faction reportedly led by Tanimu Turaki, SAN, is set to screen former President Goodluck Jonathan on Tuesday as its sole presidential aspirant ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to party sources, the screening exercise forms part of a broader nationwide vetting process for aspirants seeking elective positions under the PDP platform, including governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly tickets.
The exercise is expected to be conducted by a 14-member screening committee comprising senior party stakeholders and prominent political figures. The committee is reportedly made up of former Vice President Namadi Sambo, former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Ikimi, among others.
While the PDP has not officially confirmed Jonathan’s full return to active presidential politics, the development has intensified speculation over a possible comeback bid by the former Nigerian leader, who governed the country between 2010 and 2015.
Sources within the party indicate that the Turaki-led faction has been engaging in internal reconciliation efforts aimed at repositioning the opposition party ahead of the 2027 elections. The screening of Jonathan as a sole aspirant is being viewed by political observers as a significant move that could reshape the party’s internal dynamics and national strategy.
However, Jonathan himself has yet to publicly declare any intention to contest in the 2027 presidential election. Despite this, recent political engagements and consultations involving the former president have continued to fuel speculation about his future political ambitions.
