Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro has named former President Goodluck Jonathan Peter Obi and Governor Seyi Makinde as leading contenders for the PDPs 2027 presidential ticket This article examines their backgrounds party dynamics and what these names mean for the upcoming election .
Senate Minority Leader Speaks Out
Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro has shed light on the future of the Peoples Democratic Party as the race for the 2027 presidential election begins to take shape Speaking on a televised programme he revealed that the PDP is considering three influential southern politicians for its presidential ticket Moros remarks have stirred political conversations nationwide as the party looks to reposition itself for victory .
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The Three Contenders
According to Moro three big names stand out as potential flag bearers The first is Goodluck Jonathan former President of Nigeria and a longstanding member of the PDP His influence experience and political stature still command attention both within the party and across the country .
The second is Peter Obi former governor of Anambra State and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party Obi was once a member of the PDP but left in 2022 after expressing dissatisfaction with zoning arrangements Moro explained that with the presidential ticket now zoned to the South Obi is welcome to return and contest again under the PDP .
The third name is Seyi Makinde the Governor of Oyo State Makinde is seen as a strong performer at the state level and is considered a viable option for national leadership His growing reputation in the South West and his deep ties to the PDP place him firmly on the list of contenders .
Zoning and Its Implications
The decision to zone the PDP presidential ticket to the South is a critical factor shaping the conversation Zoning has long been a delicate issue in Nigerian politics often influencing alliances defections and internal disputes Moro pointed out that Peter Obis exit from the PDP in 2022 was closely tied to grievances over zoning Now that the South has been given the ticket the door is open for Obi and other southern leaders to stake their claims .
Internal Discontent and Defections
Moro also addressed recent defections from the PDP to other parties such as the African Democratic Congress He traced the problem back to the 2022 decision by the PDP to leave its presidential ticket open rather than committing to zoning This move created dissatisfaction among some members who felt marginalized Despite these challenges Moro expressed confidence that the party still has the strength and structure to unite behind a credible southern candidate .
What Comes Next
The Senate Minority Leader hinted that more names could emerge in the coming months as consultations continue The PDP is determined to present a candidate who can challenge the ruling party and appeal to voters nationwide Moro stressed that unity within the party and careful selection of a candidate will be crucial in ensuring that the PDP remains a formidable force in 2027 .
Analysis of the Potential Candidates
Each of the three names represents a different kind of political capital Jonathan offers experience and a proven record at the highest level of governance Obi brings fresh energy reformist credentials and an appeal to young voters and independents Makinde represents a balance of youthful leadership and strong grassroots support in the South West .
The question of loyalty also plays a role Obis possible return to the PDP will test the partys ability to reconcile with former members and heal internal divisions Beyond that all three contenders must demonstrate the ability to connect not just with southern voters but also with Nigerians across regions if they hope to secure victory .
Conclusion
Abba Moros revelations give a clearer picture of the direction the PDP is heading as 2027 approaches With Goodluck Jonathan Peter Obi and Seyi Makinde under consideration the party is weighing experience popularity and regional balance The coming months will determine whether PDP can overcome its internal struggles rally its members and present a united front One thing is certain the race for the 2027 presidential ticket is already shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political battles in Nigerias history .