Rising Speculation Around Goodluck Jonathan’s Potential 2027 Presidential Bid
Even as former president Goodluck Jonathan remains silent on his potential run for the presidency in 2027, speculation about his intentions has intensified. His continued silence has only fueled further debate and raised questions about whether he is considering a return to power. The rumors have been amplified by recent developments, including increased interactions with political parties, more frequent public appearances, and positive remarks from his close associates.
Previously, the focus of 2027 projections was primarily on three major candidates from the 2023 elections: Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the NNPP. Rotimi Amaechi, the former governor of Rivers State, had also been considered due to his renewed political interest. However, new signs suggest that Jonathan may be seriously exploring a presidential bid.
Last week, Jonathan visited David Mark, the former Senate President and current national chairman of the African Democratic Party (ADC), engaging in lengthy discussions that many believe are related to his potential candidacy. This was followed by a strong statement from Prof. Jerry Gana, a prominent PDP member, who declared that Jonathan would contest the 2027 election as the party’s candidate.
Gana’s comments were made during a PDP congress in Minna, where he expressed confidence that Nigerians were ready for Jonathan’s return after two other leaders. He urged supporters to prepare for his re-election, stating, “Nigerians have experienced two other leaders after Jonathan and were now yearning for his return.”
A planned event to celebrate Jonathan’s “good qualities” was scheduled for Independence Day but was canceled due to external pressure. The event, which included a stage play titled The Patriot, aimed to honor Jonathan’s patriotism and statesmanship. Posters and social media content featuring Jonathan were widely shared before the event was abruptly changed to another title, Our Yard Our Bond. Organizers claimed they received calls accusing them of campaigning for Jonathan, even though their intention was simply to honor him.
Among the attendees at the event were notable figures such as Prof. Jerry Gana and Boss Mustapha, the former secretary to the Government of the Federation. Additionally, Jonathan attended the launch of a book titled Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, authored by Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd).
Analysts argue that if Jonathan is not interested in running, he would have clarified his position by now. However, his silence has led to growing uncertainty. The presidency and the PDP have responded to Gana’s statements with skepticism. Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on information and strategy, called Gana’s claims absurd, warning Jonathan against being lured by the PDP. The PDP’s National Working Committee also criticized Gana, emphasizing that he does not have the authority to declare Jonathan as the party’s candidate.
A History of Leadership Recycles
Nigeria’s political landscape has seen several former leaders attempt to make a comeback. If Jonathan decides to run, he would join a list that includes Nnamdi Azikiwe, Yakubu Gowon, Muhammadu Buhari, and Ibrahim Babangida. Only Shehu Shagari, Ernest Shonekan, and Abdulsalami Abubakar did not attempt to return after leaving office.
Prof. Murtala Muhammad of Northwest University, Kano, explained that Nigerians often romanticize past administrations, believing that the past was better than the present. He noted that this nostalgia is influenced by psychological factors, where people tend to forget the shortcomings of previous governments while remembering their achievements.
Supporters of Jonathan argue that he has a strong chance of winning in the North, especially if he gains support from the South-South and South-East regions. However, not everyone is convinced. Chief Asara A. Asara, a close ally of Jonathan, expressed doubts about his chances, citing the current economic challenges and the lack of strong support from his former base.
Legal Challenges and Political Hurdles
There are also legal concerns regarding Jonathan’s eligibility to run in 2027. Barrister Ugochukwu Osuagwu argued that Jonathan is not constitutionally eligible because he has taken the oath of office twice. He pointed out that the constitutional amendment preventing someone from serving more than two terms is both retroactive and prospective.
On the other hand, Dayo Akinlaja (SAN), a former Attorney General of Ekiti State, believes that the amendment is not retroactive and that Jonathan is entitled to run. He emphasized that the constitution is prospective, meaning it applies to future actions, not past ones.
Despite these debates, the political landscape remains uncertain. The PDP is experiencing internal turmoil, and major opposition parties already have multiple candidates. Whether Jonathan will take the plunge in 2027 remains to be seen.
