The Peoples Democratic Party has dismissed reports of a planned convention to ratify former President Goodluck Jonathan as its 2026 presidential candidate, calling the story false and misleading.
In a Friday statement, PDP National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Mohammed said no convention, meeting, or process for Jonathan had been scheduled, approved, or endorsed by any recognized party organ. He urged members and the public to ignore the claims, warning they were designed to create confusion and political tension.
Mohammed also called on Jonathan to publicly dissociate himself from the “charade” to protect democratic integrity and his personal reputation. The party added that primaries for all elective positions were already concluded in line with INEC guidelines, the Electoral Act, and PDP’s constitution. Security agencies were urged to investigate the source of the reports and prosecute those behind them.
However, the Turaki-led faction insists the convention will hold as planned on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at A Class Event Centre, Wuse 2, Abuja, by 10 a.m. Its spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, accused FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of threatening to shut down the venue if the event goes ahead. The faction said all fees were paid and security agencies duly notified, arguing that Nigeria is a country governed by law.
In response, the FCTA warned that title documents of any event centre, hotel, or public building used by “illegal organizations” will be revoked. Senior Special Assistant Lere Olayinka said facilities must verify the legality of groups before approving bookings, and that operators must deal only with recognized party leadership per INEC guidelines.
The standoff has raised fresh questions about internal democracy and control within the PDP ahead of 2027.