By Ismaeel Aleem
Bauchi State Governor and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Governors’ Forum Chairman, Bala Mohammed, has said the party is considering either former President Goodluck Jonathan or former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi as a potential presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
This strategic move follows the party’s decision to zone its presidential ticket to southern Nigeria for the upcoming election cycle.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Mohammed revealed that the PDP has been engaging with both political heavyweights to explore their interest in running under the party’s banner.
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He praised Jonathan as “one of the most celebrated politicians today, despite previous political blackmail against him,” signalling the party’s openness to his candidacy should he express interest.
Similarly, Mohammed extended a warm invitation to Obi, who contested the 2023 election under the Labour Party, describing him as “my brother, my friend” and a highly regarded politician.
“If Obi decides to return to a better platform without encumbrances, he will be given the opportunity to,” Mohammed stated.
The PDP’s consideration of Jonathan and Obi is part of a broader strategy to field strong southern candidates.
Mohammed also mentioned other potential contenders, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, should they align with the PDP.
This approach aims to capitalise on Nigeria’s regional and political dynamics to strengthen the party’s prospects in 2027.
Reflecting on the PDP’s 2023 electoral loss, Mohammed attributed the defeat to the party’s failure to zone its presidential ticket to the south.
He argued that this misstep ignored Nigeria’s regional diversity, a mistake the party is determined to avoid in 2027.
To ensure a balanced ticket, Mohammed emphasised the need for a southern Christian presidential candidate paired with a northern Muslim running mate, contrasting this with the ruling All Progressives Congress’s (APC) controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket in 2023.
“The APC’s approach did not take into cognisance our diversity,” he noted.
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As the PDP prepares for 2027, Mohammed’s comments signal a deliberate effort to unite the party and appeal to Nigeria’s diverse electorate.
With discussions ongoing, the PDP aims to present a formidable ticket to challenge the APC and reclaim the presidency.
