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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the affirmation of former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, following what it described as disruptions to its Special National Convention in Abuja.
In a statement signed by Comrade Ini Ememobong, National Publicity Secretary of the party’s Interim National Working Committee, on Saturday, the PDP alleged that its planned convention was obstructed through the deployment of security personnel and threats directed at the venue management.
According to the party, it had duly notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies of its activities and had secured the A Class Event Centre in Abuja for the convention.
Read Also: Ex-Deputy Senate President Omo-Agege Joins NDC
The PDP claimed that the management of the event centre later cancelled the booking after allegedly receiving threats from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, that the facility’s Certificate of Occupancy could be revoked if it hosted the event.
The party further alleged that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) issued statements warning business premises against hosting events it considered unlawful.
It also claimed that more than 20 truckloads of police officers were deployed to the area on the eve of the convention, effectively restricting access to the venue.
Following an emergency meeting involving members of the Board of Trustees, the Interim National Working Committee, the National Executive Committee, state chairmen, governorship and National Assembly candidates, and other stakeholders, the party said it resolved not to confront security operatives.
The PDP said elder statesmen within the party advised against any physical resistance, urging members to demonstrate restraint and focus on electoral victory rather than confrontation.
The party added that a formal presentation and flag-off ceremony for the candidate would be held at a later date.
The PDP condemned what it described as the abuse of state power by officials of the current administration, particularly the FCT minister, warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic system if left unchecked.
It argued that the alleged disruption reflected growing concerns about the shrinking space for opposition politics and accused the ruling party of attempting to stifle political competition.
The opposition party also called on President Bola Tinubu to take steps to reduce political tensions and ensure that all political parties are allowed to operate freely within the bounds of the law.
Reaffirming its readiness for the 2027 elections, the PDP urged its members to remain united and committed to the party’s objectives, while directing its Interim National Working Committee to intensify preparations for the polls and raise awareness locally and internationally about what it termed efforts to weaken opposition politics in Nigeria.
Former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, has officially announced his defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Eastern Updates reports that Omo-Agege announced his resignation from the APC days after losing the Delta Central senatorial primary election.
In a lengthy statement he issued on Thursday, Omo-Agege said his decision followed weeks of reflection, wide consultations, and honest conversations with political associates, supporters, and stakeholders across the country.
The statement read: “Today, I formally announce my decision to join the National Democratic Congress [NDC].
“This decision is the product of weeks of reflection, wide consultations, and honest conversations with the people I serve. I have consulted with my political associates nationwide, supporters, and stakeholders who are the backbone of our communities. Across all these engagements, one truth stood out: Deltans want leadership that listens first, acts with integrity, and delivers results that can be seen and felt in daily life.
“I thank the leadership of the NDC for reaching out and engaging me in this process: Senator Seriake Dickson, Leader and Founder; Senator Moses Cleopas, National Chairman; Governor Peter Obi, Presidential Aspirant; and Senator
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and NDC Chieftain.
“Their commitment to building a credible, people-first alternative gives me confidence that the NDC is the right platform for Delta State and Nigeria.
“The NDC represents that kind of leadership. It is a party built on the principles of inclusion, accountability, grassroots participation, and true federalism. It is a platform where decisions are not made in closed rooms but through open consultation with stakeholders and members. It is a platform where public office is treated as a duty to the people, not a privilege for a few.
“After careful consideration, l am convinced that the NDC offers the clearest path to advance the interests of Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria.
“On this platform, I will contest for the Delta Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. Let me be clear: this is not about me.
“This is about the mandate you entrusted to me in 2019 and the renewed call from our people for my return to the Senate to provide effective representation. That call is loud, consistent, alive, and urgent. I cannot ignore it, and I will not betray the trust you have placed in me.
“Delta State holds a position of immense responsibility in Nigeria. We are among the largest producers of oil and gas, resources that have sustained the national economy for decades. Our agricultural lands are fertile and capable of feeding millions. Our business community has shown remarkable resilience despite harsh economic conditions. Our young people are educated, innovative, and ready to lead if given the opportunity. Yet the reality on the ground does not match this potential.
“In too many communities, roads have collapsed and remain impassable for months. Primary health centers lack drugs, equipment, and staff.
“Schools struggle with overcrowding and inadequate facilities. Young graduates return home without jobs, and small business owners battle a hostile environment and poor infrastructure. Meanwhile, federal allocations to Delta State have consistently run into hundreds of billions of naira annually. The gap between these resources and the lived reality of our people is unacceptable.
