2027: PDP Northern Coalition Backs Jonathan for President

…..Reaffirms Confidence in Damagum’s Leadership

The Northern Support Group of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its weight behind former President Goodluck Jonathan as the party’s preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election, describing him as “a unifying leader capable of reviving both the PDP and Nigeria.”

The endorsement was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the group’s 8th general meeting, held on Wednesday and Thursday in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

Signed by the Northern Coordinator, Yusuf Abubakar, and the North-West Zonal Secretary, Adamu Narayi, the communiqué called for a vigorous and well-coordinated media and grassroots mobilisation—particularly across the North—to build momentum for Jonathan’s candidacy and the PDP’s renewed agenda.

Comprising loyalists and support organisations from the 19 northern states, the coalition also reaffirmed its confidence in the National Chairman, Umar Damagum, commending his ongoing reconciliation initiatives aimed at strengthening internal unity and repositioning the party ahead of 2027.

Abubakar stated, “We remain confident that the PDP can reclaim its place of pride. With sincerity of purpose and collective effort, our great party will return to power both at the centre and in APC-controlled states.”

Declaring that there would be “no retreat on Jonathan 2027,” the group hailed the former president as a statesman and symbol of peace. “Dr. Jonathan has never deserted the PDP. His peaceful handover in 2015 and consistent advocacy for unity and democracy make him the right man to restore hope,” Abubakar said.

The group dismissed lingering debates over Jonathan’s eligibility to contest, insisting that the matter had been long resolved and should not distract the PDP’s focus.

However, it expressed concern about “the unpatriotic conduct of certain party figures” allegedly undermining reconciliation efforts. “Some elements within the National Working Committee are sabotaging the party’s revival while maintaining covert ties with the APC-led administration,” the communiqué alleged.

While applauding Damagum’s reconciliatory approach, the group urged him to sanction members involved in anti-party activities and double loyalty.

Reiterating its belief in the PDP’s enduring strength across the North, the coalition called for unity and renewed commitment among members.

“Our loyalty is to the PDP, not to individuals. United, we will restore the party’s lost glory,” the communiqué concluded.

Jonathan’s potential return to the presidential race has stirred fresh debate within the PDP, with some members backing his comeback and others advocating for new contenders from different regions.