As political permutations heat up ahead of the 2027 presidential election, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is reportedly considering two prominent Southern political heavyweights—former President Goodluck Jonathan and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi—as possible challengers to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Multiple party sources told *Daily Trust* that Jonathan has quietly emerged as a leading contender within PDP circles, with top chieftains intensifying behind-the-scenes efforts to lure him back into the party’s fold.
Jonathan, who led Nigeria between 2010 and 2015, left office after losing to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015. Since then, he has maintained a relatively low political profile, occasionally engaging in diplomacy and conflict resolution efforts across Africa.
Peter Obi, on the other hand, ran a strong campaign under the Labour Party platform in 2023, finishing third in a race many observers described as one of Nigeria’s most competitive elections in decades. His grassroots appeal, especially among youth and urban voters, continues to make him a formidable force in the political arena.
According to insiders, PDP strategists believe either Jonathan or Obi could mount a strong challenge against Tinubu, particularly if opposition parties rally behind a single candidate. However, talks remain in the exploratory stage, with both men yet to make public commitments.
Political analysts say the move underscores PDP’s desire to field a candidate with national recognition, a proven track record, and the ability to bridge Nigeria’s regional and ethnic divides.
With the 2027 elections still over two years away, the political landscape is expected to shift further as parties test alliances, weigh candidates’ electability, and respond to evolving public sentiment.
