A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Turaki, SAN, has granted former President Goodluck Jonathan a waiver from its presidential screening process ahead of the 2027 elections, confirming him as the party’s only presidential aspirant for now.
Former Niger State governor Babangida Aliyu, who represented former Vice President Namadi Sambo and the chairman of the screening committee, said the party saw no reason to subject Jonathan to screening because of his previous leadership experience.
According to Aliyu, Jonathan had served as deputy governor, governor, vice president, and president, making further screening unnecessary.
He added that the PDP had officially granted Jonathan a waiver and cleared him as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
Aliyu also disclosed that the party granted a waiver to its National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, citing his previous roles as deputy governor and ambassador.
He said the screening committee had already received aspirants from Taraba, Adamawa, Kano, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states, while the exercise would continue for others expected before the panel within the approved timeframe.
Aliyu maintained that despite challenges facing the party, the PDP remained determined to participate fully in the 2027 elections.
When asked if Jonathan was currently the party’s only presidential aspirant, Aliyu responded that, as of now, he was the sole contender.
