ARTICLE AD BOX
The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has intensified preparations for the 2027 general elections with the announcement that more than 3,000 aspirants will undergo screening for various elective positions across the country.
The development marks another major step by the Makinde-backed bloc as it continues to operate its parallel political structure amid the lingering leadership crisis rocking the opposition party.
In a statement released on Sunday through the faction’s official X handle, the group disclosed that 3,181 aspirants are expected to participate in the screening exercise scheduled to hold nationwide on May 19, 2026.
According to the breakdown released by the faction, 2,122 aspirants are seeking tickets into State Houses of Assembly, while 748 are contesting for seats in the House of Representatives.
The faction also revealed that 198 aspirants are vying for senatorial tickets, 112 are contesting for governorship positions, while one aspirant has indicated interest in the party’s presidential ticket.
Announcing the constitution of screening committees and appeal panels for the exercise, the faction said the move followed decisions reached by its leadership in line with preparations for the next general elections.
“Following the approved Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections by the National Executive Committee (NEC) at its 104th Meeting, the Interim National Working Committee (iNWC) hereby announces the publication of the under-listed members to serve as the Screening Committees and Screening Appeal Panels,” the statement read.
The group explained that the exercise formed part of the implementation of its approved electoral timetable and internal guidelines ahead of the 2027 polls.
It further stated that screening would take place simultaneously across the country beginning at 10am on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
Read also: Why I Left Music Industry — Carter Efe shares frustrating experience
“Consequently, the total number of aspirants expected to be screened are: 2,122 SHOA, 748 HOR, 198 Senatorial, 112 Gubernatorial and 1 Presidential.
“For further inquiries, please contact the Member/Organizing Secretary, Interim National Working Committee at our National Secretariat.
“The exercise will take place nationwide on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM,” the statement added.
The latest move highlights the widening division within the PDP, which has remained embroiled in a prolonged internal battle between the Makinde-backed camp and another faction loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The Makinde camp had earlier constituted a 13-member Interim National Working Committee headed by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki and has since continued with independent preparations for the 2027 elections, including the sale of nomination forms and release of its own political timetable.
However, the rival Wike-aligned faction has consistently rejected the actions of the Makinde bloc, describing the parallel structures and activities as unauthorised and lacking legitimacy within the party.
Political observers believe the latest announcement may further deepen tensions within the PDP as both factions continue to struggle for control of the party ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Makinde himself has openly declared interest in contesting for the PDP presidential ticket, a move that has further heightened political calculations within the fractured opposition party.
The post Makinde camp moves ahead with 2027 plans, announces screening for 3,181 PDP aspirants appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from Ripples Nigeria.
English (US) ·