The Tanimu Turaki-led Interim National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the Sandy Onor–Babangida Umaru ticket, insisting that former President Goodluck Jonathan remains its authentic presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

The faction’s Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, stated that the group does not recognise the decisions or activities of the rival leadership allegedly backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike and operating from the party’s national secretariat at Wadata Plaza in Abuja.

“Jonathan remains the authentic candidate of the PDP. Or has he told anyone that he is not? No, of course not. He remains our presidential candidate,” Ememobong said.

Addressing concerns over the faction’s lack of access to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination portal, Ememobong expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved in due course.

“As for the INEC code and uploading, wait for the right time; the proper procedures will be followed and the abnormalities will be corrected,” he added.

Ememobong further accused the Federal Government of failing to create an enabling environment for a thriving multi-party democracy, alleging that public confidence in the electoral process has significantly declined.

According to him, many Nigerians believe the electoral system has already been compromised, thereby undermining trust in the democratic process.

He also dismissed the actions of the Wike-backed faction, stating that his group remains unconcerned about their decisions.

“These individuals at Wadata Plaza do not concern us. We are not interested in who they have selected as presidential candidate or running mate,” he said.

“We do not respond to their actions because we neither recognise nor concern ourselves with what they are doing.”