By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor; Clifford Ndujihe; Dapo Akinrefon; Ikechukwu Nnochiri; Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo & Luminous Jannamike
Date: August 7, 2025
In a stunning development, a close ally of former President Goodluck Jonathan has signalled that the Bayelsa-born statesman is poised to make a dramatic return to the political arena. The source, speaking exclusively to Vanguard, confirmed that Jonathan is among the leading contenders being considered to face incumbent President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 presidential election.
According to the confidant — who shares Jonathan’s affiliation with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — efforts to draft the ex-president into the race have progressed significantly. Jonathan, the source revealed, has indicated his willingness to contest under the PDP banner. The ally emphasized that Jonathan’s potential return is fuelled by a commitment to address Nigeria’s growing poverty, hardship, and overall citizen suffering.
A Strategy for Transition
The project to restore the country to its former prestige is being spearheaded by an alliance of key party figures and respected elders. Their view: Jonathan presided over a period of relative stability and economic growth and could once again serve as a unifying figure. Some strategists see his presumed single term from 2027 to 2031 as a smoother pathway to return the presidency to the North thereafter—a plan many believe would ease regional tensions.
Behind Closed Doors: The Networking Begins
Political sources say Jonathan has already held discreet meetings with influential leaders inside and outside the PDP. Notably, he met with retired General Ibrahim Babangida at his Minna residence, signaling outreach to Northern power brokers. Simultaneously, Jonathan has been engaging stakeholders across the South-South region, particularly in Port Harcourt, to solidify a support base.
PDP Intensifies Its Pitch
On the party front, the PDP is actively attempting to persuade Jonathan to lead its 2027 ticket. Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi noted growing public sentiment of regret that the nation did not re-elect him in 2015, with many now expressing regret—and asking for his return.
Further underscoring the party’s serious intent, National Financial Secretary Daniel Woyengikuro affirmed that Jonathan is considered the party’s national leader. He went as far as advocating for an automatic nomination for the former president, declaring, “If Goodluck finally accepts, you will see that the entire dynamics will change.”
Legal Battlelines: Eligibility in Question
Jonathan’s eligibility to run again is under legal scrutiny. The 2018 constitutional amendment (Fourth Alteration Act) restricts individuals sworn in more than twice from serving another term under Sections 137(3) and 182(3). Critics argue Jonathan falls within this prohibition.
But the issue remains contentious. A Federal High Court in Yenagoa ruled in May 2022 that the constitutional amendment cannot be applied retroactively to bar him, given that his initial assumption of office was not through election but due to the death of President Yar’Adua.
Legal experts are divided. Senior counsel Dayo Akinlaja and Elekwachi Nnabuihe argue the law shouldn’t apply retroactively and that Jonathan remains eligible. In contrast, human rights lawyer Johnmary Jideobi warns that a returned presidential tenure could breach the eight-year constitutional limit and provoke legal challenges.
Voices Within PDP
PDP heavyweight Olabode George has also thrown his support behind Jonathan, stressing his retainment within the party and his track record as compelling reasons for his candidacy. George asserted that Jonathan “is eminently qualified to run for office,” and would be an easy figure for the electorate to rally behind.
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