The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced strong support for the growing calls urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to join the 2027 presidential race. Over recent weeks, speculation has mounted that northern elites and politicians, dissatisfied with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, are subtly pushing for a shift in leadership come the next election.
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, recently lent his weight to this movement, even declaring that he would forgo his own presidential ambitions if Jonathan decided to run. Speaking at an event organized by the Save Africa Initiative in Abuja, Mohammed emphasized that Jonathan’s experience and leadership could be vital in revitalizing the nation’s economy, expressing confidence in the former president’s ability to steer the country towards a brighter future if given another term.
Reflecting on this growing sentiment, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, underscored that the support from northern elites and figures like Governor Mohammed resonates deeply within the party. Abdullahi explained, “Governor Mohammed’s stance is reflective of a widespread belief within the PDP. Having served under Jonathan as a minister and boasting an impressive political career, the governor fully understands the complexities facing Nigeria and appreciates Jonathan’s ability to guide us through them.”
Abdullahi pointed out that, if the country is to embrace a southern presidency in 2027, Jonathan stands out as a leader who has not only governed with integrity but also inspired hope. “Jonathan represents the kind of leader Nigerians are seeking. He peacefully conceded power in 2015 without resorting to election rigging, and this willingness to prioritize the nation over personal ambition is rare,” he said.
Addressing concerns that this push for Jonathan’s return might ruffle feathers within the party, particularly with former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, Abdullahi was firm. He noted that Atiku’s influence cannot dictate the party’s decision-making process. “Atiku has had his chances in 2019 and 2023. There’s nothing wrong with shifting focus to someone who may have a better chance in 2027. The PDP is a national party, not one led by any single figure,” Abdullahi added.
However, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed these early moves, criticizing the PDP’s efforts to stir up the political landscape prematurely. APC’s National Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, labeled the PDP’s actions as signs of desperation, asserting that Jonathan’s potential candidacy poses no threat to the party. Ibrahim remarked, “It’s far too early to be talking about 2027. Less than 40% of President Tinubu’s mandate has been consumed. Jonathan was defeated by the APC while in power, and defeating him again would be even easier.”
He also debunked the claim that the APC’s victory over Jonathan in 2015 was solely due to Muhammadu Buhari’s cult-like following, arguing that Tinubu’s leadership was instrumental in securing the victory. Ibrahim expressed confidence that the party’s strategic positioning under Tinubu would prevail in 2027 if Jonathan were to run again.
While acknowledging the nature of politics and its tendency to keep people engaged in speculation, Ibrahim reaffirmed that the APC would continue to focus on delivering on its mandate. He added, “When the time comes, the APC will field a candidate the people will support. But for now, it’s too early to get caught up in election fever.”
