It’s no longer just whispers—Goodluck Jonathan is seriously being considered to lead the 2027 presidential charge on the PDP platform — www.naijnaira.com reports.
A source close to the former president revealed to Vanguard that discussions within top ranks of the Peoples Democratic Party have advanced significantly, and Jonathan has given his nod to the idea, pending certain conditions.
Conversations are already happening in high places. Jonathan has met with power brokers, including a quiet sit-down with former military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida in Minna. He also made stops in the South-South to gauge support from critical stakeholders.
The push isn’t just about politics. Those behind the effort believe Jonathan’s past record during his six-year administration brings the kind of stability and focus the country urgently needs right now.
His potential return isn’t just a southern ambition either. Northern leaders are reportedly backing a single-term deal with him, which they see as a tactical route for power to shift back north in 2031 without friction.
Meanwhile, legal discussions around his eligibility have resurfaced. Some constitutional lawyers say the 2018 amendment banning two-time oath-takers doesn’t apply to Jonathan because it can’t be used retroactively. In 2022, a Federal High Court in Yenagoa agreed.
Jonathan has reportedly outlined some preconditions, including clarity on whether he’d have to compete in primaries or be handed the ticket outright. The PDP’s leadership is split, but some senior members are in favor of skipping the primaries altogether.
“We must salvage both this party and the nation,” PDP’s Financial Secretary Daniel Woyengikuro said. “An automatic ticket for Jonathan is what I stand for—quote me anywhere.”
At the grassroots level, many Nigerians say they’re rethinking past elections, now comparing the current hardship to Jonathan’s time in office. Some are even apologizing.
One PDP insider confirmed that Jonathan’s name is once again creating movement in Abuja. “If he accepts, 2027 will not look like anything you’ve seen before,” the source added.
Though the debate over his eligibility continues, former PDP Deputy Chairman Bode George dismissed concerns. He argued that Jonathan never contested the presidency in 2010 but merely completed Yar’Adua’s term under a constitutional necessity.
Legal voices remain split. Some point to the Constitution’s Section 137(3), warning it could trigger a conflict if Jonathan wins again. Others insist the clause doesn’t hold water since the amendment came after his first tenure ended.
As consultations continue behind closed doors, Jonathan’s political future now seems anything but settled. But what’s clear is that a serious effort is underway to bring him back.
Article updated 3 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
