The political landscape in Nigeria is heating up as former President Goodluck Jonathan's potential comeback for the 2027 presidential election gains traction. Uncertainty looms over which party platform Jonathan will adopt, with both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vying for his attention.
PDP's Overtures to Jonathan
The PDP has been actively courting Jonathan, with top party leaders lobbying him to accept the party's presidential ticket. Some PDP members believe Jonathan's candidacy would be a strategic move, given his past experience as president and potential appeal to certain voter demographics. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, a key PDP figure, has pledged to support Jonathan if he decides to run ¹ ².
ADC's Appeal to Jonathan
Meanwhile, the ADC has also emerged as a potential platform for Jonathan's presidential ambitions. The party's coalition strength and growing influence in Nigerian politics make it an attractive option for ambitious politicians. However, Jonathan has not publicly indicated his preference for the ADC or confirmed any discussions with party leaders ³.
Jonathan's Considerations
Jonathan's decision on which party platform to adopt will likely depend on various factors, including the party's internal dynamics, his relationships with key stakeholders, and the potential for electoral success. Insiders suggest that Jonathan is weighing his options carefully, with some speculating that he may prioritize the PDP due to his historical ties to the party ¹.
Implications for the 2027 Election
Regardless of which party platform Jonathan chooses, his candidacy is expected to significantly impact the 2027 presidential election. His presence in the race could alter the dynamics of the opposition camp, potentially influencing the decisions of other aspirants and shaping the electoral landscape ³.
Key Players' Positions
- *Atiku Abubakar*: The former Vice President is reportedly building momentum within the ADC, with some speculating that he may be positioning himself for a presidential run in 2027.
- *Peter Obi*: The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate has been mentioned alongside Jonathan as a potential candidate, with some PDP members expressing interest in wooing him back to the party.
- *Rotimi Amaechi*: The former Minister of Transportation has openly declared his interest in running for the presidency on the ADC platform, citing his experience and knowledge of the ruling APC's strengths and weaknesses ³.
