The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially distanced itself from recent remarks made by Professor Jerry Gana, former Minister of Information, regarding the potential candidacy of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking at a PDP event in Minna, Niger State, over the weekend, Professor Gana declared that Nigerians were eager for Jonathan’s return and confirmed that the former president would contest the 2027 election under the PDP banner. The comments sparked widespread speculation and debate within political circles.
In a swift response, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, addressed the media in Abuja, stating unequivocally that Professor Gana lacked the mandate to speak on behalf of the party regarding its presidential ticket. “Professor Jerry Gana doesn’t speak for the PDP,” Ologunagba said. “People can express their opinion, but our party has a process, and when we get to that bridge, we’ll cross it.”
The PDP emphasized that it has a pool of eminently qualified candidates, particularly among its performing governors, and that the party remains committed to a transparent and democratic nomination process. The leadership reiterated that no official endorsement has been made for any candidate, including former President Jonathan, who remains a member of the party but has not publicly declared his intention to run.
The party also dismissed reports of a state congress held in Calabar, Cross River State, labeling it a “hallucination” and “pre-carnival gathering” not sanctioned by the National Working Committee (NWC).
This development underscores the PDP’s efforts to maintain internal discipline and clarity ahead of its national convention and the 2027 general elections.