Former President Goodluck Jonathan is preparing to contest the 2027 presidential election, a close ally within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has revealed.
According to the source, the plan to draft the Bayelsa-born former leader back into the race is already well advanced, and Jonathan has agreed to run under the PDP platform. The move, the ally said, is being championed by influential political figures and elder statesmen who believe Jonathan’s return could help tackle rising poverty, economic hardship, and widespread suffering across the country.
Supporters of the initiative argue that Jonathan brought stability and economic progress during his six years in office, and believe his return offers a chance to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges. They are also reportedly positioning his candidacy as a transitional option, since Jonathan can legally serve only one more four-year term. This, they believe, would pave the way for power to return to the North in 2031, potentially allowing an uninterrupted eight-year northern presidency.
The source disclosed that Jonathan has already held private consultations with prominent national figures, both within and outside the PDP. Notably, he recently met with former military President Ibrahim Babangida at his Minna residence to discuss his plans. Although Babangida’s response was not disclosed, the ally expressed confidence that the proposal has gained traction in the North.
Meanwhile, Jonathan is said to be actively engaging political stakeholders in the South-South region, seeking their endorsement and backing ahead of a formal announcement.
If confirmed, Jonathan’s return would set the stage for a high-profile rematch against President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.
