The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has welcomed the publication of its presidential candidate by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing the development as a major victory for the party.
The party said the inclusion of Senator Sandy Ojang Onor and his running mate, Alhaji Babangida Umar, on INEC's official list has put an end to months of speculation over whether the faction would participate in the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement issued by the faction's National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, the PDP said the publication had effectively silenced critics who repeatedly claimed the party would fail to present a presidential candidate.
According to the statement, the official recognition of Onor's candidacy represents an important milestone in the party's preparations for the 2027 general election.
The party argued that the latest development vindicated its leadership after months of internal disagreements, legal disputes and public criticism surrounding its nomination process.
It maintained that allegations suggesting the PDP would be unable to field candidates were politically motivated attempts to discourage supporters and weaken public confidence in the party.
The faction expressed appreciation to millions of members and supporters across Nigeria and in the diaspora for remaining loyal despite the prolonged internal crisis.
The statement praised party faithful for refusing to be distracted by what it described as deliberate misinformation targeted at the PDP's leadership.
The party also commended INEC for carrying out its constitutional responsibilities by publishing the names and credentials of presidential candidates ahead of the commencement of campaigns.
It further applauded the judiciary and security agencies for what it described as their commitment to upholding the rule of law throughout the nomination process.
Reaffirming its commitment to reconciliation, the Wike-backed PDP leadership called on aggrieved members to return, insisting that unity remains essential to rebuilding the party ahead of the elections.
The faction also welcomed returning members and new defectors, saying their decision reflected renewed confidence in the PDP's vision and leadership.
Party officials pledged to continue strengthening internal structures while presenting what they described as a credible alternative for Nigerians in the 2027 elections.
The publication of Onor's name on INEC's list comes after months of rivalry between the Wike-backed faction and another PDP bloc led by former Minister of Special Duties Kabiru Turaki, which had put forward former President Goodluck Jonathan as its preferred presidential candidate.
Political observers believe INEC's publication has strengthened the position of the Wike-backed leadership in the ongoing struggle for control of the party's future.
INEC recently released the names, personal particulars and credentials of 19 presidential candidates contesting the 2027 general election, in line with the Electoral Act, ahead of the commencement of campaigns.
The publication allows members of the public to scrutinise the credentials and documents submitted by all presidential candidates before the election campaign officially begins.
The Wike-backed PDP said it remains focused on reconciliation, party rebuilding and presenting what it believes is a strong platform capable of attracting widespread national support.
Party leaders expressed optimism that the official recognition of Senator Sandy Onor's candidacy would boost confidence among supporters and strengthen preparations for the 2027 presidential contest.
The development marks another significant chapter in the PDP's internal political realignment as the race toward Nigeria's 2027 general election gathers momentum.