The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has cautioned that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may face a significant constitutional risk if it selects former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate in 2027. Keyamo expressed this concern on social media platform X, highlighting the potential implications of Jonathan’s candidacy.
According to Keyamo, the PDP’s consideration of Jonathan as a candidate is due to his perceived eligibility to run for only one term. However, Keyamo warned that this decision could lead to the party being disqualified from having a candidate altogether, citing section 137 (3) of the 1999 Constitution (Fourth Amendment). This section could potentially bar Jonathan from running, and if this determination is made after nominations have closed, the PDP may be left without a candidate.
Jonathan previously served as president, completing one term after taking over following the death of former President Musa Yar’Adua. He was subsequently defeated by former President Muhammadu Buhari in the next election. Despite this, there have been recent calls for Jonathan to run for the presidency again in 2027.
Keyamo emphasized that any disputes regarding Jonathan’s eligibility would ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court, rather than on social media. He advised the PDP to be aware of the potential judicial risks involved in selecting Jonathan as their candidate, to avoid any potential claims of corruption or injustice if the party is ultimately disqualified.
The PDP’s decision on its presidential candidate for 2027 is likely to have significant implications for the country’s political landscape. As the party weighs its options, it must carefully consider the potential constitutional risks and challenges associated with each candidate. The outcome of this decision will be closely watched, both within Nigeria and internationally, as the country prepares for its next presidential election.
