The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, officially affirmed former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election. This significant decision was made during a meeting of party stakeholders held in Abuja on a Saturday, which the party later referred to as its Special National Convention.

According to the resolutions released by the PDP, party leaders, members of its interim leadership, state chairmen, candidates, and other key stakeholders convened after facing an unexpected disruption to their planned convention venue. The party asserted that it had diligently notified both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and various security agencies about its scheduled activities, and had indeed secured a suitable venue for the event. However, this arrangement was reportedly undermined.

The PDP accused the management of the event centre of canceling their booking following alleged threats that the facility could face severe sanctions if the party's event proceeded as planned. Furthermore, the party claimed that a substantial deployment of police officers was observed blocking access to the area where the intended venue was located, effectively preventing their gathering. In response to this blockade, party leaders held an emergency meeting where they made the strategic decision to avoid any confrontation with the security personnel. This choice, the party clarified, was influenced by appeals from respected elder statesmen who urged restraint and advised against any form of physical confrontation.

Despite these significant disruptions, the PDP affirmed that its stakeholders successfully proceeded with what it deemed the primary purpose of their gathering. The party’s resolution explicitly stated: “Since the main activity of the day is the affirmation of President Goodluck Jonathan, the stakeholders continued with the plan and President Goodluck Jonathan was unanimously affirmed, after a motion was duly moved and seconded, as the presidential candidate and flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party for the 2027 presidential election.” The PDP also announced that a formal presentation and flag-off ceremony for Jonathan would be organized and held at a subsequent date.

In addition to the affirmation, the PDP strongly criticized what it described as the inappropriate use of government power against the party. It accused officials of deliberately attempting to obstruct its legitimate political activities. The party seized the opportunity to call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to actively work towards reducing political tensions across the nation. Finally, the PDP urged its members to maintain unwavering commitment and loyalty to the party as it intensifies preparations for the crucial 2027 elections. The resolutions, emanating from the Abuja meeting, were issued under the continuing leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki.