INEC Releases 2027 Candidates List; Jonathan, Nwoko Omitted

On Saturday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released the final list of candidates for the 2027 general elections, concluding months of political suspense. Notable absentees from the list include former President Goodluck Jonathan, who was presented as a presidential candidate by the Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Senator Ned Nwoko, former Ogun State governor Gbenga Daniel, former Gombe State governor Danjuma Goje, and Kebbi South Senator Garba Maidoki were also missing. This development follows a statement by Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding the All Progressives Congress (APC) addressing grievances from its primaries.

Although the APC reinstated six serving senators after reviewing petitions, many influential politicians remained excluded. Nwoko's absence confirmed his defeat in the APC primary, while Goje lost to retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Mohammed Ahmed.

In Bauchi State, Senator Shehu Buba (Bauchi South) and lawmaker Mansur Soro were also absent, with Buba defecting to the Peoples Redemption Party for a governorship ticket.