The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has publicly called on former President Goodluck Jonathan to consider running for the 2027 presidential election under its platform. In an interview with The Bureau Newspaper, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi underscored the party’s desire for Jonathan to return and complete his legacy within the PDP. He warned against the risks of Jonathan aligning with the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a move that would expose “the hypocrisy of the APC.”
Abdullahi emphasized the PDP’s track record in nurturing leaders such as Okonjo-Iweala, Akinwunmi Adesina, and others, whom he termed “the pride of Nigeria,” arguing that Jonathan’s return to the party would build on this legacy.
Speculation and Reactions to Jonathan’s Potential Candidacy
The appearance of Jonathan’s 2027 campaign posters in Kano has further fueled speculation. The posters, bearing messages like “The Goodluck Nigeria Needs,” were attributed to a group called “Team New Nigeria.” This follows previous attempts by Jonathan’s supporters to position him for political roles, including efforts in 2023 to draft him into the APC, a move he ultimately distanced himself from.
Abdullahi cautioned Jonathan to be wary of newfound praise from individuals and groups who had previously criticized him, encouraging the former president to reflect on his prior experiences.
APC’s Response: Confident of Victory
In response, the APC dismissed the PDP’s appeal to Jonathan as inconsequential, stating that even “10 Goodluck Jonathans” could not defeat their party in the next election. APC’s National Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, pointed to the party’s past success in defeating Jonathan in the 2015 elections when he was an incumbent president, arguing that the current political dynamics under President Bola Tinubu make another victory even more likely.
Ibrahim also criticized early discussions about the 2027 elections, noting that less than 40% of Tinubu’s current mandate has been served.
Implications for the PDP
The PDP is also grappling with internal challenges, including leadership disputes. Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum has faced calls for his resignation, with critical decisions about the party’s future expected during the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for February 2025.
Observers note that the PDP’s ability to reconcile its factions and rally around a strong candidate will significantly influence its prospects in 2027.
The unfolding dynamics between Jonathan, the PDP, and the APC are expected to shape Nigeria’s political landscape in the coming years.