Leaders of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are actively working to convince former President Goodluck Jonathan to run for the 2027 presidential election on the party’s platform.
According to The Guardian, Ibrahim Abdullahi, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, confirmed that the party is making significant efforts to persuade Jonathan to re-enter the presidential race.
Jonathan previously served one term as president before losing his re-election bid in 2015 to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Abdullahi noted that the party’s invitation aligns with widespread calls from Nigerians who want Jonathan to make a political comeback. He described Jonathan as a statesman and capable leader, adding that many earlier criticisms against him have since been reviewed by the public.
He highlighted Jonathan’s notable act of statesmanship in the 2015 election, where, despite having the power as an incumbent to influence the results, Jonathan chose to accept defeat peacefully to avert potential violence.
Abdullahi further stated that Jonathan responded positively to the party’s invitation, explaining that he would take time to consider the offer and hold consultations before making a final decision.
Jonathan reportedly set some conditions, including being granted an automatic nomination ticket if he agrees to run, and emphasized the need for thorough consultations before confirming his candidacy.
The report also mentioned that several governors accompanied Jonathan to Gambia, where he attended an event, as part of ongoing efforts to persuade him to contest under the PDP’s banner in the upcoming election.
