The Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

The group disclosed that Jonathan was formally recognised as its flagbearer and presented with a certificate of return following a convention held to ratify his candidacy.

The faction also explained the circumstances that led to a change in the venue originally scheduled for the convention.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the management of the event centre initially booked for the gathering cancelled the reservation shortly before the event.

The statement alleged that the venue operators cited pressure and threats allegedly linked to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, including concerns that their Certificate of Occupancy could be revoked and the facility demolished if the convention proceeded as planned.

The party claimed that following an emergency meeting, its leadership decided against confronting security personnel reportedly deployed to the venue and opted instead to relocate the event to an alternative location.

Despite the disruption, the faction said the convention was successfully held at the new venue, where delegates ratified Jonathan’s candidacy and formally issued him a certificate of return.

The group condemned what it described as interference in its internal political activities and called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure that democratic principles are protected.

According to the statement, actions capable of restricting political participation or disrupting lawful party activities pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.

The faction further stated that with Jonathan’s emergence as its presidential candidate, it is now focused on preparations for the 2027 general elections and intends to take all necessary steps to ensure its full participation in the electoral process.

The group maintained that it remains committed to pursuing its political objectives through lawful and democratic means.