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Northern opposition urges former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest against Tinubu
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PDP insiders raise concerns about his inactivity and potential litigation risks
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No official confirmation yet on Jonathan’s intentions
Ahead of the 2027 presidential election, former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly under pressure, particularly from northern opposition groups, to declare his interest in contesting against President Bola Tinubu.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015 after succeeding the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, has not publicly confirmed any intention to run.
His potential candidacy would, under the north-south zoning arrangement, allow him to serve only a single term.
Observers note that Jonathan’s return to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) presidential race faces several hurdles. Lagos PDP chieftain Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse highlighted that Jonathan has been inactive in the party, not contributing funds or support for five years, which may limit his ability to secure delegates for primaries.
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Legal uncertainties also pose a risk. Some interpretations question whether Jonathan, having been sworn in twice, is constitutionally eligible to contest, potentially opening the door to litigation that PDP may prefer to avoid.
Former lawmakers and political analysts, including Shehu Sani and Dele Farotimi, have advised against Jonathan’s candidacy, citing changes within the PDP and the public’s past electoral decisions. Meanwhile, PDP officials have described speculation on his ambition as inconclusive, with no official announcement from either Jonathan or the party.
