The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to consider running in the 2027 presidential election. This call comes as dissatisfaction grows, particularly among northern elites, with President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has publicly supported Jonathan, praising his resilience and integrity, and highlighting his potential to lead the nation again. Senator Bala Mohammed made the recommendation at an event organised by a non-governmental organisation, Save Africa Initiative, in Abuja.
However, this move may cause tension within the PDP, particularly among supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who also has his eyes set on the 2027 race. The Nigerian Youths for Atiku (NYFA) group has declared that only divine intervention could stop Atiku from contesting and winning the election.
In an exclusive phone call with the Punch, the National Director of Publicity for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded by mocking the PDP’s reliance on Jonathan, reminding the public that the APC had previously defeated him and could easily do so again.
Despite the APC’s dismissal, the push for Jonathan’s return is gaining momentum, fuelled by growing discontent with the current administration. This political manoeuvring suggests that the 2027 election could be highly contested, with Jonathan’s potential candidacy potentially reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape. Whether Jonathan will heed these calls and enter the race remains to be seen, but his possible return is already stirring significant debate.