The Political Landscape Shifts as Goodluck Jonathan Engages with ADC Leadership
Few hours after the African Democratic Congress (ADC) held its first national caucus meeting in Abuja, former president Goodluck Jonathan made a visit to the party’s national chairman, Senator David Mark. This meeting has sparked significant interest and speculation within the political arena.
The timing of this visit is particularly noteworthy given the current state of Nigerian politics. With every step in the political landscape carrying weight, the interaction between Jonathan and Mark cannot be overlooked. Sources within the ADC suggest that although the meeting was private, it may signal Jonathan’s efforts to rally opposition parties before deciding whether to contest for the presidency.
A top member of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) mentioned that while PDP members have been urging Jonathan to show interest in running, he has not yet made a definitive statement. This ambiguity leaves room for interpretation, suggesting that there is an underlying interest from Jonathan.
Jonathan, as a former president and an international citizen, is aware of the implications of his actions. If he decides to run against the ruling party, he would likely seek a unified opposition. However, the current state of the PDP presents challenges, as many leaders have moved to other parties like the ADC.
The ADC clarified that the meeting between Jonathan and Mark was a private one. According to the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the caucus meeting where party leaders met in Abuja was separate from the private discussion between Jonathan and Mark. He emphasized that the meeting was closed-door, with only the two leaders present.
Despite the explanation, some analysts argue that the timing and optics of the meeting are too significant to ignore. A reliable source in the ADC noted that Jonathan is aware of the interpretations surrounding his gesture but chose not to be discreet about it. The meeting occurs at a time when speculation about Jonathan’s potential presidential bid is rife.
It is also intriguing that Jonathan met with the ADC’s national chairman immediately after the party announced its consideration of opening its presidential ticket for 2027. The ADC’s national caucus urged hopefuls to support whoever emerges as the party’s flag bearer in the 2027 election. Attendees included notable figures such as Mark, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and others.
Jonathan lost the 2015 presidential election to late former president Muhammadu Buhari of the APC but has since remained politically active. In the lead-up to the 2023 elections, a group reportedly paid N100 million to obtain a form for him to participate in the APC presidential primary.
Analysts highlight that Jonathan’s potential candidacy is fueled by several advantages over other aspirants. Unlike candidates such as Atiku Abubakar, who face zoning issues, Jonathan does not have such constraints. Additionally, he is statutorily limited to one term due to his previous presidency, which could appeal to those wary of multiple terms.
However, a legal issue remains regarding Jonathan’s eligibility to run after having taken the oath of office twice. Bernard Mikko, a former House of Representatives member from Rivers State, cited a Federal High Court judgment that cleared the way for Jonathan to contest another election, affirming his right to do so in 2027.
Political analysts note that while the PDP is making moves to convince Jonathan to join the presidential race, the party’s issues with the FCT minister Nyesom Wike, a strong ally of President Tinubu, pose challenges. The ADC, composed of Jonathan’s former allies, appears to be a more viable platform.
This development has placed many politicians in a dilemma, as they are uncertain about Jonathan’s next steps. A former minister, who had previously supported another candidate, is now reconsidering her stance after sensing Jonathan’s potential return.
Additionally, the much-promoted independence stage play, The Patriot, in Abuja, which features Jonathan’s image, may be part of a broader effort to project his leadership and patriotism. Analysts suggest that the event aims to reawaken the consciousness of Nigerians regarding plural democracy and good governance.
Currently, Jonathan remains a member of the PDP, staying within the party even after losing the presidential election. Unlike in 2023, his body language this time suggests he is not entirely against the idea of running again, as he has been engaging with key players shaping the 2027 race.
