PRP Clears Ex-Cross River Governor, Two Others For Presidential Primaries
PRP Clears Ex-Cross River Governor, Two Others For Presidential Primaries
Duke emerged as one of the three cleared presidential aspirants announced by the party in a statement issued on Saturday, May 23, 2026, by the PRP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq.
Aformer Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, has formally joined the presidential contest of the Peoples Redemption Party ahead of the party’s primaries scheduled for May 25, 2026.
Duke emerged as one of the three cleared presidential aspirants announced by the party in a statement issued on Saturday, May 23, 2026, by the PRP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq.
The development places the former governor among the leading figures seeking the party’s presidential ticket as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Other aspirants cleared by the party include Dr. Nnaoke Ufere from Abia State and Engr. (Dr.) Yakubu Mohammed Kingsley from Edo State.
According to the statement, the three aspirants had met and resolved to submit themselves to the outcome of the party’s democratic process during the nationwide primaries.
“The three cleared presidential aspirants of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) have convened and unanimously agreed to submit their aspirations to the will of our party members during upcoming primaries scheduled for Monday, May 25, 2026, across all parts of the country,” the statement read.
The PRP described the aspirants as distinguished politicians whose commitment to democratic principles and internal party cohesion had strengthened the party ahead of the polls.
“The PRP takes pride in the caliber of its aspirants, whose dedication to democratic principles and commitment to teamwork have further strengthened our party,” Ishaq stated.
The party further assured members and supporters of a transparent and credible primary election process, stressing that all aspirants would be given a level playing field.
“We are committed to conducting credible, transparent, and free primaries, involving over 260 aspirants competing for various elective offices, especially in instances where consensus is not achievable,” the statement added.
Duke’s entry into the race is expected to draw significant national attention given his political profile and previous influence in national politics. The former governor, who governed Cross River State between 1999 and 2007, has been regarded as a major political figure from southern Nigeria.
The PRP also reiterated its commitment to democratic ideals and internal party discipline, insisting that the primaries would reflect the wishes of party members across the federation.
“The PRP remains steadfast in its resolve to uphold democratic values and ensure a fair process for all aspirants and party members,” the statement concluded.
Nigeria’s Presidential election is expected to hold in January, 2027 going by the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
