By Atoyebi Nike
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Northern Support Group has thrown its weight behind former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election under the party’s banner, describing him as the only leader capable of restoring unity and redeeming the PDP.
The endorsement was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the group’s 8th meeting held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, on Wednesday and Thursday. The statement was jointly signed by the Northern Coordinator, Yusuf Abubakar, and the North-West Zonal Secretary, Adamu Narayi.
The group, which comprises PDP loyalists and support networks from across the 19 northern states, called for a coordinated media mobilisation especially in the North to rally support for Jonathan and promote the party’s renewed agenda.
“We remain optimistic that the PDP is not beyond redemption. With genuine commitment and collective sacrifice, our great party will reclaim power at the national level and in states currently under the APC,” Abubakar said.
The group described Jonathan as a tested leader and symbol of peace who handed over power peacefully in 2015 and has remained committed to the PDP. It dismissed concerns about his eligibility to contest, saying the issue had been settled and “cannot be used by the opposition to distract the party.”
While commending the reconciliation efforts of the National Chairman, Umar Damagum, the group expressed concern over the conduct of some party leaders allegedly undermining unity. It accused elements within the National Working Committee of “collaborating with the APC-led government while pretending to build the PDP.”
The group urged Damagum to sanction those involved in anti-party activities and reaffirmed its loyalty to the PDP, declaring, “There is no going back on Jonathan in 2027.”
Reports of Jonathan’s possible interest in the PDP presidential ticket have triggered internal debates, with some factions supporting him and others pushing for alternative candidates from different regions.
