The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the publication of its presidential and National Assembly candidates by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a decisive moment that confirms its participation in the 2027 general elections and ends months of speculation over the party’s readiness.
The opposition party said the PDP candidates list released by INEC vindicates its leadership and disproves claims that it would be unable to present a presidential ticket for the forthcoming elections.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the party said INEC’s publication officially confirmed Distinguished Senator Prof. Sandy Ojang Onor as the PDP’s presidential candidate, with Alhaji Babangida Umar named as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.
According to the party, the development represents a significant milestone after months of legal disputes and leadership challenges that had fuelled uncertainty about its electoral preparations.
“Today, the facts have prevailed, the law has taken its course, and the PDP has once again been vindicated,” the statement said.
The PDP argued that the publication of the PDP candidates list had effectively dismantled what it described as sustained misinformation aimed at convincing Nigerians that the party would fail to produce a presidential candidate. The party maintained that such narratives were designed to discourage its supporters and create uncertainty about its future ahead of the 2027 polls.
The statement also commended party members and supporters for remaining committed throughout the period of internal challenges, noting that their loyalty played a key role in sustaining the party’s rebuilding efforts.
The PDP further expressed appreciation to INEC, the judiciary and security agencies for carrying out their constitutional responsibilities and upholding the rule of law during the process.
Reaffirming its commitment to internal reconciliation, the party said it remains focused on fostering unity and inclusiveness ahead of the elections. It extended an invitation to aggrieved members to return, stressing that collective interest outweighs individual differences.
The party also welcomed returning members and recent defectors, describing their decision as evidence of growing public confidence in the PDP’s vision for Nigeria.
According to the statement, under the leadership of National Chairman Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed Takushara and National Secretary Distinguished Senator Samuel N. Anyanwu, the party is determined to provide Nigerians with what it described as a credible, competent and unifying alternative capable of rebuilding the country.
The PDP added that the publication of the PDP candidates list should reassure its supporters that it remains fully prepared to contest the 2027 presidential election and is committed to returning to power through democratic means.
