PDP Founding Fathers Advocate Southern Candidate to Challenge Tinubu in 2027
Party Elders Push for Regional Representation in Upcoming Presidential Race
The founding members of Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have called for a strategic approach that would see the party field a presidential candidate from the southern region in the 2027 elections. This move would position the opposition party to directly challenge incumbent President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Gana Leads Call for Equitable Representation
At a crucial PDP Consultative Conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, former Minister Jerry Gana, speaking on behalf of the party’s founding fathers, emphasized that this regional strategy would not only improve electoral prospects but also promote principles of justice, fairness and national equity.
“From our renewed foundation, we should conduct a fair process to produce our presidential candidate for the 2027 presidential election,” stated Professor Gana, a retired academic and seasoned politician. “We should present to Nigerians not just a candidate, but a visionary leader – a tested and trusted patriot, a proven solution-provider with the capacity and character to rescue Nigeria.”
Youth Inclusion and Party Reform
The elder statesman also highlighted the critical need for generational transition within the party’s leadership structure. He advocated for greater participation of young Nigerians in both party administration and electoral candidacy.
“The PDP must deliberately open space for younger Nigerians; brilliant, energetic and innovative minds should participate actively as leaders within our party structures and as candidates at all levels,” Gana urged. “Their ideas, energy and digital fluency are essential for building the Nigeria we all deserve.”
This push for youth inclusion comes amid growing calls across Nigerian politics for greater representation of younger demographics in governance.
Roadmap to 2027: Party Reorganization and Policy Framework
National Convention and Internal Democracy
The PDP leaders proposed immediate organizational reforms, calling for a transparent National Convention to elect new party officers. Gana stressed that the convention must set new standards for internal democracy within Nigerian political parties.
“The convention must be transparent, accountable and reflective of our democratic ideals,” he asserted. “No more backroom deals or impositions. Delegates should freely elect a new National Working Committee of proven integrity, competence and loyalty to PDP ideals.”
Policy Blueprint for National Recovery
Addressing Nigeria’s current challenges, the PDP elders announced plans to unveil a comprehensive national recovery blueprint. This policy framework will focus on six key areas:
- Stability and good governance
- Lasting peace and security
- Economic transformation (from consumption to production)
- Infrastructure rebuilding
- Agricultural revolution
- Education and healthcare reform
“A new PDP is emerging, reformed, responsive and ready,” Gana declared, expressing confidence in the party’s ability to present a viable alternative to Nigerians.
Political Context and Implications
The PDP’s strategic positioning comes as Nigeria’s political landscape shows increasing regional tensions. The call for a southern candidate follows the APC’s selection of President Tinubu, a Yoruba from southwest Nigeria, continuing the unofficial rotation of presidential power between north and south.
The consultative conference attracted prominent PDP figures including state governors, National Assembly members, former governors and ministers, ambassadors, and representatives of women and youth wings – signaling broad-based support for the proposed reforms.
As Nigeria prepares for the next electoral cycle, these developments position the PDP as it seeks to reclaim national leadership after its 2023 defeat. The emphasis on southern representation, youth inclusion and policy-driven governance suggests a comprehensive rebranding effort by Nigeria’s main opposition party.
Source: Premium Times