By Oluwasore Alabi
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) finds itself at a crossroads. The recent buzz around former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi possibly returning to the PDP is sparking both hope and controversy within the party’s leadership.
While some in the party believe their return could boost PDP’s chances, others view it as a risky move that could create more division than unity. Either way, the party must tread carefully.
The PDP is still recovering from years of internal conflict and mass defections. Prominent figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Ifeanyi Okowa have already left for the APC or newly formed parties. In response, the PDP has been trying to restructure, with a National Elective Convention set for November and the inauguration of zoning committees already underway.
Against this backdrop, some party leaders are meeting quietly with Jonathan and Obi in what appear to be private efforts to bring them back. Officially, the PDP leadership says no formal invitations have been made. But these informal efforts have stirred debate within the party and among political observers.
Supporters of the move argue that both Jonathan and Obi have strong political brands and national appeal. Jonathan, despite criticism during his presidency, is remembered for conceding defeat peacefully in 2015. Obi, on the other hand, captured the youth vote and disrupted traditional party politics in 2023 with his Labour Party campaign.
But others in the PDP are more cautious. They point out that Jonathan left the party during its most vulnerable moment after his 2015 loss. Similarly, Obi’s defection before the 2023 elections cost the PDP dearly in several regions. There is a real concern that is bringing them back now especially if done with promises of automatic tickets could upset long-time members who stayed loyal during the hard times.
Furthermore, Jonathan’s eligibility to contest is unclear. A 2018 constitutional amendment appears to limit his chances of seeking the presidency again, since he has already been sworn in twice. This legal uncertainty could become a distraction for the party if not addressed early.
Meanwhile, party leaders are right to highlight strong homegrown options like Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed. These are leaders who have stayed with the PDP, performed well in office, and maintained the party’s relevance. Ignoring them in favor of returnees might damage internal morale and party unity.
The PDP is also facing threatened by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which says the party is “struggling” and won’t stand a chance in 2027. While such comments are expected in politics, they point to a broader reality: the PDP still has a long way to go in rebuilding public trust.
If the PDP truly wants to return to power in 2027, it must prioritize fairness, transparency, and internal unity. Welcoming back experienced politicians like Jonathan and Obi is not wrong. But the party must make it clear: no one is above the rules, and no ticket will be handed out on a silver platter.
