The Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Working Committee met former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja on January 6, 2026, securing his assurance of increased involvement ahead of the 2027 elections. Turaki, addressing journalists post-meeting, revealed Jonathan's commitment as a "card-carrying member" obligated to repay PDP's past support during his vice presidency, presidency, and Bayelsa governorship.
Turaki described the closed-door session as an introduction of the new leadership—elected at the faction's Ibadan convention and briefing on legal battles against rival chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed, who aligns with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Jonathan offered private reconciliation advice, boosting morale for Ekiti, Osun off-cycle polls and national contests.
The faction claims INEC recognition via monitored primaries, rejecting the Wike-backed group amid dual conventions and court fights. Turaki vowed inclusivity, ending impunity, and returning PDP to "the people," positioning it as Nigeria's top opposition despite splits mirroring Rivers State power plays.
Jonathan's re-engagement fuels 2027 speculation, though he avoids candidacy talk, contrasting Asari Dokubo's Tinubu endorsement and APC e-registration drives. Turaki eyes Nigerians' preferences, promising level playing fields as INEC's voter registration resumes.
