By Emmanuel Kwada
The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) aggressive strategy to reclaim the presidency in 2027, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has revealed that the party is actively considering former President Goodluck Jonathan and Labour Party’s 2023 flagbearer Peter Obi as prime candidates for its southern-zoned presidential ticket.
The disclosure, made during a high-profile interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, underscores the PDP’s quiet but determined efforts to consolidate its position as the main opposition force against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Mohammed, who serves as the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, emphasized the party’s openness to “celebrated politicians” who can bolster its electoral prospects.
Describing Jonathan as “one of the most celebrated politicians today” despite past political challenges, Mohammed indicated that the former president would be welcomed back if he expresses interest in running.
“Certainly, President Jonathan is one of the candidates we are thinking of, if he joins us and opens his mind to run,” he stated, recalling how he had previously pledged to step down his own presidential ambition in Jonathan’s favor.
Certainly, President Jonathan is one of the candidates we are thinking of, if he joins us and opens his mind to run
Peter Obi, the former Anambra State governor whose third-place finish in the 2023 election galvanized a youth-driven movement, was equally highlighted.
Mohammed, a personal friend of Obi, confirmed ongoing discussions, noting, “Have you not seen him with me? He’s my brother, my friend. And of course, he’s one of the most celebrated politicians too. If he decides to come to a better platform where there are no encumbrances, he will be given the opportunity too.” The governor hinted at broader coalition talks, adding that the PDP is “not sleeping” on its ambitions, though it prefers to operate discreetly.
This revelation comes just days after the PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, where the party unanimously zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South—a decision aimed at correcting the perceived misstep of opening the ticket in 2023, which led to internal divisions and electoral losses.
The PDP is “not sleeping” on its ambitions, though it prefers to operate discreetly
The zoning retains the national chairmanship in the North, with Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum confirmed as the substantive chairman. Mohammed defended the move as a “learning process” from past errors, stressing the need for consensus and national unity over personal ambitions. He also advocated for a southern Christian candidate paired with a northern Muslim running mate to better reflect Nigeria’s diversity, implicitly critiquing the APC’s 2023 Muslim-Muslim ticket.
The PDP’s outreach extends beyond Jonathan and Obi. Mohammed disclosed private sessions with other southern heavyweights, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who is free to contest, and even former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, now with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“There are so many politicians. I even had a session with Governor Amaechi. I have not been sleeping,” he said, leaving the door open for cross-party defections to strengthen the PDP’s fold.
Political analysts view this as a calculated ploy to lure high-profile figures disillusioned with their current platforms. Senator Abba Moro (PDP-Benue South) had earlier hinted at similar engagements, suggesting Obi could secure the ticket upon returning. However, the ADC has criticized the PDP’s zoning as a “calculated” effort to poach talents like Obi, Jonathan, and Amaechi, accusing both major parties of prioritizing power games over addressing Nigeria’s economic woes.
As the 2027 elections approach, with President Bola Tinubu already adopted by the APC for a second term, the PDP’s strategy could reshape the opposition landscape. Reactions on social media have been swift, with users debating the viability of a Jonathan-Obi alliance or Obi’s potential return from the Labour Party. For now, Mohammed’s comments have ignited speculation, positioning the PDP as a proactive force ready to challenge the status quo.
The PDP has yet to issue an official statement, but party insiders suggest more details could emerge at upcoming conventions, including one slated for Ibadan in November. As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and insecurity, the battle for the Aso Rock Villa is heating up earlier than ever.
