PDP Clears Jonathan by Waiver for Presidential Primary

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cleared former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan by waiver ahead of its presidential primary election.

The decision was confirmed on Tuesday in Abuja by former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu, a member of the Tanimu Turaki-led PDP National Working Committee Presidential and Gubernatorial Screening Committee, shortly after the screening exercise.

Jonathan’s clearance comes amid internal consultations within the PDP over the eligibility and participation requirements for aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A faction within the party reportedly aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier indicated that the former president would be screened as a presidential aspirant.

However, Jonathan was expected to submit his nomination form on Monday but did not appear in person for the process.

Despite his absence, the screening committee proceeded with its assessment and subsequently granted him a waiver, allowing him to participate in the party’s presidential primary.

The waiver is understood to be tied to internal party guidelines and procedural considerations governing former office holders re-entering the presidential race.

Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015 under the PDP platform, remains a significant figure in national politics and has been frequently mentioned in discussions around potential opposition realignments ahead of 2027.

His possible return to the presidential race has continued to generate debate within the party, with supporters describing him as a stabilising figure capable of boosting PDP’s chances at the national level.

However, some stakeholders within the party have raised concerns over zoning arrangements and the broader strategy for challenging the ruling party in the next election.

The PDP is yet to release a full official list of cleared presidential aspirants following the screening exercise, as internal consultations are expected to continue ahead of the primaries.

Political analysts say Jonathan’s clearance could significantly reshape the dynamics of the PDP presidential contest and influence ongoing coalition negotiations within the opposition.