ABUJA — Former senator and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Sandy Onor, has formally joined the race for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election after obtaining his expression of interest and nomination forms at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday, Onor said his decision followed sustained calls from party stakeholders and supporters across the country, positioning his candidacy as a response to internal demand within the PDP.
“Upon pressure from the leadership and followership of this country, I agreed to pick the expression of interest and nomination forms,” he said. “The process has begun, and the rest will follow.”
Onor’s entry adds to a growing list of aspirants within the opposition party, which is seeking to reposition itself ahead of the next general election after its loss in 2023. His declaration signals early mobilisation within the PDP as it attempts to consolidate its base and present a competitive challenge.
Addressing concerns over internal divisions, particularly the stance of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike — a prominent PDP figure who has openly supported President Bola Tinubu — Onor sought to downplay potential tensions.
“Wike is a leader of the party, but he is not the party,” he said. “Individuals are entitled to their political choices, but that does not define the direction the PDP will take.”
The issue of party cohesion remains a key factor for the PDP, with analysts pointing to internal disagreements and shifting loyalties as challenges that could shape its primary process and broader electoral strategy.
Onor, however, expressed confidence in the party’s internal mechanisms, stating that the eventual candidate would emerge through a democratic process.
“This party will present a presidential candidate who is ready to contest and win,” he said. “If given the mandate, I will lead with courage, capacity, and a strong sense of responsibility.”
He also framed his candidacy within a broader narrative of governance, suggesting that Nigerians are open to an alternative political direction.
“Let Nigerians decide,” he said. “There is a growing desire for a return to PDP-style governance.”
Onor’s declaration reflects an early phase of political realignment within the opposition, where multiple aspirants are testing influence and visibility ahead of formal primaries. The PDP’s ability to manage internal divisions while projecting unity will likely be a defining factor in its 2027 prospects.
Party officials and supporters present at the secretariat described the increasing number of aspirants as a sign of renewed internal engagement, even as questions remain over how competing interests will be reconciled.
