Rising Political Tensions and Strategic Alliances
Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly considering aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. This potential move comes as the ADC, a coalition of opposition forces, gains momentum and intensifies its consultations with key political stakeholders across the country.
Multiple members of the ADC National Working Committee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed to a local news outlet that the former president was considering the platform. While Jonathan has not made an official statement regarding his intentions, several leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been urging him to run on their platform. Some Nigerians support the idea and even suggest alternative platforms, while others advise him against joining the race.
Beyond party politics, public opinion remains divided on Jonathan’s eligibility, especially in light of the 2018 constitutional amendment that bars anyone who has been sworn in twice as president or governor from contesting again. However, in what seems to be part of consultations ahead of a possible declaration, Jonathan has noticeably increased his public engagements in recent times.
Increased Public Engagement and Key Meetings
In addition to attending nearly all national events he is invited to, Jonathan has also been meeting with key political figures. Notably, he met with the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Abuja on September 12, and later held discussions with ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, along with other leaders of the coalition party on September 25.
A source within the ADC leadership revealed that Jonathan’s meeting with the coalition leaders was largely centered on the 2027 presidential election. The source stated:
“The truth is, Jonathan is a very important and patriotic Nigerian, and he will be a great asset to our party. Our party has already established communication with him. As you may know, the National Chairman and some members of the ADC have met with him several times.”
The discussions focused on the future leadership of Nigeria and the challenges facing the country. The ADC believes that it can serve as a better platform for all Nigerians, including Jonathan. The party is seen as the only credible alternative platform, and they are working with Jonathan and many others whom they expect to join the party.
Another source revealed that Jonathan might join the ADC if the party agreed to give him the presidential ticket unopposed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi. The source added:
“Of course, the former president met with some leaders of our party. Part of the discussion was about leadership in the country, the challenges, how the All Progressives Congress has destroyed most of the democratic institutions and complicated matters for Nigerians generally in terms of the economy and security.”
ADC’s Vision and Future Plans
The ADC Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufai, emphasized that Jonathan’s discussion with Mark centered on the future. In an interview, Rufai stated:
“Yes, in the case of the ADC, every good Nigerian that is patriotic and has the country in mind would want to have an alternative. And the ADC is the only alternative for now.”
Rufai highlighted that the ADC is the only opposition party with trusted leaders and integrity. He noted that the PDP and Labour Party are seen as extensions of the APC, making the ADC the only credible platform. Rufai expressed confidence that Jonathan’s discussions with ADC leaders were focused on the future of the country.
Building Momentum and Strategic Roadmap
When contacted, the National Treasurer of the ADC and member of the coalition party, Mani Ibrahim, confirmed that the coalition leaders have been holding meetings with stakeholders. He stated that if the momentum currently being built by the ADC is maintained, the party will achieve its desired results in the next election.
Ibrahim outlined the party’s roadmap, emphasizing the need to build on the dissatisfaction among Nigerians with the current administration. He noted the levels of poverty, hunger, and insecurity, and how the ADC has appealed to these concerns. He added:
“We have had a series of meetings with many eminent Nigerians, and more meetings are set to take place soon. Between now and the next two years, we have strategized. We have a roadmap, and we are following it diligently.”
Reactions from the APC
Reacting to the potential alliance, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, claimed that defeat awaited Jonathan if he joined the 2027 race. He stated:
“Our party defeated him when he was full of confidence in the PDP, and the PDP was full of confidence in itself. So much that it thought it was going to rule the country for 60 years. How can our party not beat him now that he has lost confidence in that party and has joined a party that has no bearing at all?”
Ibrahim argued that the ADC is not organized and that the APC’s overwhelming support among Nigerians would ensure their victory in the 2027 race regardless of Jonathan’s political party.
Unsuccessful Attempts to Reach Key Figures
Attempts by the correspondent to reach the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi; Atiku’s Media Aide, Paul Ibe; and the National Coordinator of the Obidients Movement, Yunusa Tanko, were unsuccessful, as none of them responded to calls as of press time.
