The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has warned that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could face a serious constitutional risk if it chooses former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for 2027. Speaking on the social media platform X, Keyamo noted that the party’s interest in Jonathan stems from the perception that he is eligible to run for only one term. However, he cautioned that this decision might lead to the PDP’s disqualification from fielding any candidate at all, citing section 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution (Fourth Amendment). That provision could bar Jonathan from running, and if a ruling is made after nominations have closed, the party would be left without a nominee.
Jonathan served as president for one term after succeeding the late President Musa Yar’Adua, and he was later defeated by former President Muhammadu Buhari in the subsequent election. Despite his previous defeat, recent calls have emerged urging him to contest the presidency again in 2027. Keyamo stressed that any disputes over Jonathan’s eligibility would ultimately be resolved by the Supreme Court, not on social media, and urged the PDP to recognize the judicial risks involved in selecting him. He warned that the party could face accusations of corruption or injustice if it is ultimately disqualified.
The PDP’s choice of presidential candidate for 2027 will have significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape. As the party weighs its options, it must carefully assess the constitutional risks and challenges associated with each potential nominee. The decision will be closely monitored both within Nigeria and internationally as the country prepares for its next presidential election.
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