The Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, changed its convention venue Saturday and ratified former President Goodluck Jonathan as its 2027 presidential candidate, just 20 minutes after police blocked access to the original venue in Abuja.
Security operatives barricaded the two roads leading to A Class Hotel in Wuse with vans, stopping PDP members loyal to Tanimu Turaki from entering. The hotel had been fully paid for and security agencies notified of the May 30 convention.
—Jonathan ratified in 20 minutes—
The faction moved proceedings to a new, undisclosed venue and concluded business in under 20 minutes. Jonathan’s ally, Senator Fred Agbedi, received the certificate of return on his behalf.
Dignitaries present included Prof Jerry Gana, Tanimu Turaki, and Senator Adolphus Wabara.
—Wike’s warning, PDP’s pushback—
The move followed Friday’s warning by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to hotels and event centres not to host “illegal political gatherings” for security reasons.
PDP accused Wike of trying to stop the convention. “A Class Event Centre management informed us that pressure was being mounted to stop the gathering despite full payment and compliance,” the party said in a statement.
PDP insisted the convention would proceed despite “intimidation”.
[Source: ChannelsTV]
