Bayelsa PDP Rules Out Automatic Ticket As 2027 Governorship Race Opens

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State has ruled out an automatic governorship ticket for its state leader, Great Joshua MacIver, following his declaration to contest the 2027 governorship election.

The state chairman of the party, Hon. Alabh George Turnah, said MacIver's declaration would not prevent other qualified members of the party from seeking the PDP ticket. Turnah stated this at the first expanded meeting of heads of working committees in the state and the inauguration of the party's Campaign Budget Committee.

He said the party remained open to all members interested in contesting the governorship election and would provide a level playing field for aspirants during the nomination process.

“Bayelsa is PDP and PDP is Bayelsa. Now that MacIver has taken this bold step, we want to see more people coming forward who also want to contest the governorship position,” Turnah said.

He said the party had also completed the uploading of the particulars of its candidates on the Independent National Electoral Commission portal.

According to him, the particulars of the party's National Assembly candidates had been published, while those of candidates for the State House of Assembly would be released shortly. Turnah congratulated the candidates and expressed confidence that the party would retain its electoral strength in the state.

The PDP chairman also disclosed that MacIver had approved a monthly subvention of N70 million to support the party's administration and operations in Bayelsa. He said the intervention followed discussions on the party's financial needs and would support party structures and officials from the ward level to the state, as well as national, zonal, and other support personnel.

Turnah, however, maintained that the financial intervention would not influence the party's governorship nomination process or give MacIver an advantage over other aspirants. The party also resolved to participate in the forthcoming local government elections in the state. Turnah directed members interested in contesting chairmanship and councillorship positions to begin consultations and prepare to contest on the party platform. He urged the Bayelsa State Independent Electoral Commission to ensure that the elections were conducted freely, fairly and transparently.

The party also approved the commencement of a Women Prayer Network involving 100 women, who will meet twice every month. Turnah said each participant in the initiative would receive a monthly stipend of N10,000 as part of efforts to strengthen the party's grassroots structures and increase women's participation.

The party further fixed its 100th State Executive Committee meeting for October 2, 2026, to coincide with activities marking the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State.

Turnah also commended the National Leader of the PDP and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, for his support for the party. He said Wike's interventions helped keep the PDP active and prepared for future elections in the state. The party subsequently passed votes of confidence and commendation for Wike, MacIver and Turnah for their contributions to the organisation and growth of the PDP in Bayelsa State.