Top 10 PDP Contenders for the 2027 Presidential Ticket

The race to pick the PDP’s candidate for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election has begun. The People’s Democratic Party is the main opposition party and has not limited its choice to any one region. 

Many well‑known leaders are in the running,former vice‑presidents, Senate chiefs, state governors and experts in business and media. 

Below are the top ten PDP politicians who have the best chance of winning the party’s ticket for 2027.

Leading Aspirants for the PDP Nomination

Atiku Abubakar

A former vice‑president (1999–2007), Atiku Abubakar is making his sixth bid for the presidency. Born in Adamawa State in 1946, he built his career in business before entering politics. Atiku ran for governor of Adamawa in 1990 and 1998, then lost the 1993 SDP presidential primary.

Now 74, he argues that his experience and track record of economic reforms make him the best choice to unite Nigeria and drive growth.

Bukola Saraki

Son of the late political heavyweight Olusola Saraki, Bukola Saraki served two terms as governor of Kwara State (2003–2011) and was Senate President from 2015 to 2019.

A medical doctor by training, he defected from the APC back to the PDP ahead of the 2019 elections. Now 59, Saraki’s campaign slogan is “#GrowNigeria,” focusing on inclusive development and economic renewal.

Sam Ohabunwa

Pharmacist and former chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Sam Ohabunwa is 71 and from Abia State. He led the Nigerian Economic Summit Group and champions self‑sufficiency through local production.

Ohabunwa says his experience in business and industry uniquely positions him to heal national divisions and boost domestic manufacturing.

Aminu Tambuwal

Currently serving his second term as governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal was Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015.

At 56, he enjoys the backing of Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, his one‑time ally. Tambuwal promises to tackle Nigeria’s deep‑seated problems with pragmatic governance and social investment.

Nyesom Wike

Governor of Rivers State since 2015, Nyesom Wike is a lawyer who first entered public service as Obio‑Akpor local government chairman in 1999. He later served as Chief of Staff to the Rivers governor and as Minister of State for Education under President Jonathan.

Now 59, Wike positions himself as a leader who can deliver infrastructure and security while safeguarding federalism.

Bala Mohammed

Bala Mohammed, 63, is governor of Bauchi State and a former senator (2007–2010). He also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory from 2010 to 2015.

Mohammed’s platform focuses on change management and youth empowerment, drawing on his blend of legislative and executive experience.

Ayo Fayose

Ayodele “Ayo” Fayose, 62, served two terms as governor of Ekiti State (2003–2006; 2014–2018). Known for his grassroots appeal, Fayose emphasises social welfare and fiscal accountability.

His campaign argues that strong state‑level leadership can scale up to national transformation.

Anyim Pius Anyim

From Ebonyi State, Anyim Pius Anyim was Senate President (2000–2003) and Secretary to the Government of the Federation under President Jonathan.

Now 61, he calls for a Southeast presidency and pledges to restore good governance and rebuild public trust in federal institutions.

Emmanuel Udom

Emmanuel Udom, two‑term governor of Akwa Ibom State since 2015, is an accountant by training. He began his career in banking before entering politics as Secretary to the State Government.

At 59, Udom stresses the importance of integrity, transparency, and the need to harness Nigeria’s oil wealth for the benefit of all citizens.

Dele Momodu

Owner and publisher of Ovation International magazine, Dele Momodu is a media entrepreneur and former campaign spokesman for President Obasanjo.

Known for his global connections and communication skills, Momodu positions himself as a unifier who can bridge generational and regional divides.