By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
A presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Sandy Onor, has declared that Nigerians are eager for the return of PDP leadership, as he formally signalled his intention to contest for the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Saturday after obtaining his expression of interest and nomination forms, Onor said his decision to join the race followed sustained pressure and encouragement from party stakeholders across the country.
“Upon pressure from the leadership and followership of this party, I have come to pick my expression of interest and nomination forms to contest for the presidency under the platform of this great party,” he said.
The lawmaker expressed confidence in his chances, noting that he would fully engage in the nomination process and interact more with Nigerians if he emerges as the party’s candidate.
Addressing concerns over internal party dynamics, particularly the position of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who has publicly supported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term, Onor dismissed suggestions that it could affect his ambition.
“Barrister Nyesom Wike is indisputably a leader of the party, but he is not the party,” Onor said, stressing that individual political choices should not determine the direction of the PDP.
He acknowledged Wike’s right to support the incumbent president, noting that the minister had formally sought and received the party’s approval to serve in the current administration.
“If Nyesom Wike does not support President Tinubu, Nigerians will question his integrity, given his position in government,” he added.
However, Onor maintained that the PDP remains committed to presenting a strong presidential candidate capable of challenging for power in 2027.
“This party has chosen to field a candidate who will contest and win elections. If I am given the mandate, I will lead with courage, capacity, and responsibility,” he said.
He expressed optimism that Nigerians would ultimately choose the PDP, arguing that many citizens are dissatisfied with current governance and are looking for an alternative.
“Nigerians are yearning for PDP-type governance, and by the grace of God, it will return,” Onor stated.
He reassured that the people will be the major considerations in all his policies just as he pledged to bring back the glorious days of PDP.
“If you have seen PDP before in its days of glory, buckle up. Because this party is ready to supersede the glory days. This party will take Nigeria to another season of exponential greatness.
“For us, the people remain the centerpiece of our vision. Because this is a people’s party” he said.
In his response, the National Chairman of the Party, Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed, reminded the aspirant that he has a duty to get in touch with the entire 774 local governments and the Area Councils in the Federal Capital Territory to sell his ideas to the people.
While assuring him of maximum support from the leadership of the party, he told him that the ultimate decider will be Nigerians.
Sen. Onor is the first aspirant to obtain the party’s Presidential Nomination and Expression of Interest form.
