Peter may be good, but we have somebody better. So, we are searching.
Stalwarts of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are deeply split over whether to press former President Goodluck Jonathan or former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi as the party’s standard bearer in the 2027 presidential election. A high‑level lobby reportedly has been instructed to persuade Jonathan to return, offering him a guaranteed ticket to complete a “safe” transitional presidency.
A member of the PDP Board of Trustees, speaking anonymously, stated: “Let me tell you straight away, serious efforts are being made to pull Jonathan into the race. From the look of things, our northern colleagues believe that it is necessary to get the former president to come in and complete his second term.” This camp argues that Jonathan’s eligibility under the constitutional two‑term limit makes him a stabilising choice.
By contrast, former PDP national chairman Professor Jerry Gana expressed confidence in Obi’s electability, arguing that “in the northern states, Peter Obi under the PDP will defeat any candidate because our people are very fair‑minded and just.” He also noted, “Peter may be good, but we have somebody better. So, we are searching.”
Opponents of Obi’s return cite concerns over his history of defections and question whether he would honour a pledge to serve only a single term. As one insider remarked, “It is risky to swim in a river filled with sharks and crocodiles.” Signals from Bauchi State governor Bala Mohammed indicate he would only run if Jonathan declines to enter the race, pledging support “with my blood” if Jonathan steps forward.