According to report by Vanguard on Thursday, August 7, 2025, former President Goodluck Jonathan is emerging as a strong contender for the 2027 presidential race against the current President, Bola Tinubu. A trusted ally from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) disclosed that advanced plans are in place for Jonathan to contest under the PDP platform, and he has agreed in principle.
The move is reportedly supported by key political leaders and elders who believe Jonathan can rescue Nigeria from worsening poverty and hardship.
The plan is to have Jonathan serve a single four-year term, which some believe would pave the way for power to shift back to the North in 2031. Jonathan has already begun discreet consultations with influential figures, including a recent visit to former military leader, General Ibrahim Babangida, in Minna. He is also engaging stakeholders in the South-South, particularly in Rivers State.
The PDP is reportedly intensifying efforts to persuade Jonathan, with top party officials, including governors, backing the move. PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, confirmed that many Nigerians have expressed regret for not re-electing Jonathan in 2015 and are urging his return. The party is responding to these appeals by actively engaging him.
According to reports, Jonathan has begun setting conditions for his return, such as whether he would face primaries or receive an automatic ticket. PDP’s National Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyengikuro, expressed strong support for Jonathan’s candidacy, citing his leadership and southern roots as vital to reshaping Nigeria’s future. Woyengikuro also named Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as another capable southern leader.
Amid this political development, debate continues over Jonathan’s eligibility. The 2018 constitutional amendment bars individuals sworn in twice as president from running again. However, legal opinions differ. Some lawyers argue the amendment does not apply retroactively and cannot disqualify Jonathan since he assumed office in 2010 before the amendment. A Federal High Court in 2022 also ruled in his favor.
Nevertheless, critics warn that a 2027 Jonathan presidency could exceed the constitutional eight-year limit. Despite this, PDP leaders like Bode George insist that Jonathan remains qualified, having only completed Yar’Adua’s term due to the Doctrine of Necessity before winning a single term in 2011.
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