Former President Goodluck Jonathan is set to undergo screening by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the party's sole presidential aspirant for the 2027 general elections. The screening committee, headed by former Minister of Special Duties Tanimu Turaki, includes prominent figures such as former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang, and former Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Ikimi.
Screening Committee Composition
The 14-member committee also comprises Chief Olabode George, Babangida Aliyu, Maryam Ciroma, Zainab Maina, Josephine Anenih, Dr. Abdul Bulama, Dr. Esther Uduehi, Edo PDP chairman Tony Aziegbemi, Dr. Sunday Solarium, and Chief Anicho Okoro, who will serve as administrative secretary. The screening is expected to take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
Jonathan's Membership Registration
Party insiders confirmed that the aspirant being screened is former President Goodluck Jonathan. This development follows the faction's National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, revealing that Jonathan completed his membership registration during the party's fresh digital registration exercise approved by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Jonathan served as Nigeria's president from 2010 to 2015 and contested the 2015 presidential election under the PDP before losing to Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Nationwide Screening for Other Aspirants
The PDP faction, reportedly backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, also announced plans to screen hundreds of aspirants for various elective offices ahead of 2027. According to the party, 748 House of Representatives aspirants, 198 senatorial aspirants, 112 governorship aspirants, and 2,122 state House of Assembly aspirants will undergo screening across the country. The nationwide exercise will begin simultaneously in different states from 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday.
The party stated that the publication of screening details is in accordance with its guidelines and timetable for the conduct of the 2027 general elections.
Madumere Declares Readiness for Imo East Senatorial Race
Meanwhile, former Imo State Deputy Governor Eze Madumere has declared his readiness to contest the 2027 Imo East Senatorial election under the PDP platform. Madumere stated that he possesses the political structure, influence, and grassroots support needed to deliver victory for the party and restore stronger representation to the Owerri zone.
"I have the political reach, capability, and capacity to win this election for our great party, the PDP. My name is not a strange name in Imo State. You cannot mention Prince Eze Madumere and ask, who is that? The people know me. They know my track records. They know what I stand for, which represents equity and justice. Be rest assured, I am fully prepared, fully ready, and fully committed to this election," he said.
Madumere added that by the grace of God, with the support of party faithful, stakeholders, and the good people of Owerri Zone, victory is assured. He plans to focus on youth empowerment, job creation, and economic development across the Owerri zone if elected to the Senate.
