The Wike-backed faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed satisfaction after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) published Senator Sandy Onor as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election, saying the move has ended months of speculation over the party’s participation in the poll. The party said the development confirms that it remains […]

The Wike-backed faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed satisfaction after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) published Senator Sandy Onor as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election, saying the move has ended months of speculation over the party’s participation in the poll.

The party said the development confirms that it remains fully in the race despite months of internal disputes, legal battles and uncertainty over its leadership, insisting that the publication of Onor’s name by the electoral commission represents official recognition of its position ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Mohammed, the faction described INEC’s action as a major milestone, arguing that it had effectively laid to rest claims by political opponents and critics that the PDP would be unable to field a presidential candidate because of its prolonged internal crisis.

According to the statement, the publication of the final list demonstrates that the party has met all constitutional and electoral requirements and is now fully prepared to challenge other political parties in the forthcoming general election.

The faction also commended INEC for conducting what it described as a transparent and lawful process, while praising the judiciary for its handling of disputes arising from the party’s internal disagreements. It equally acknowledged the role of security agencies in maintaining peace and ensuring stability throughout the process.

The party called on members who had become disillusioned during the leadership crisis to return and work together for the collective interest of the PDP, stressing that reconciliation and unity would be crucial to its success in the 2027 elections.

It also welcomed returning members and new defectors from other political parties, saying their decision to join the PDP reflects renewed confidence in the party’s leadership and its ability to provide a credible alternative for Nigerians.

The statement concluded by assuring supporters that the party would intensify preparations for the election, expressing optimism that a united PDP would mount a strong challenge in the presidential and National Assembly polls.

The statement came after INEC released the final list of presidential and National Assembly candidates for the 2027 general election.