Campaign posters for former President Goodluck Jonathan have sparked speculation about his return to politics for the 2027 elections. The posters, seen in key Kaduna locations, promote the slogan “Team New Nigeria 2027: The Goodluck Nigeria Needs.” These signs suggest Jonathan may re-enter the political scene, raising questions about his next move.
Debate has intensified following the emergence of these posters, with many wondering if Jonathan will rejoin the presidential race. In an interview with Saturday PUNCH, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi expressed the party’s eagerness for Jonathan’s return. Abdullahi stressed the importance of Jonathan rejoining the PDP, which has a longstanding influence on Nigeria’s political landscape.
PDP’s Call for Jonathan to Run
Abdullahi emphasized the PDP’s desire for Jonathan to finish his term, citing the party’s ongoing support for his rise. The PDP has positioned itself as a key force in Nigeria’s governance, highlighting its historical successes with influential figures. The party’s call for Jonathan to run again in 2027 has increased pressure on him to consider a second term.
Abdullahi warned Jonathan against aligning with other parties, particularly the APC, cautioning him about potential hypocrisy and betrayal. He highlighted the criticism Jonathan faced during his previous presidency, urging him to remain loyal to the PDP. Abdullahi’s message was clear: switching parties would be seen as a betrayal of both Jonathan’s political roots and PDP’s unwavering support.
“Team New Nigeria” Movement Gains Momentum
Jonathan’s recent presidential posters are linked to the “Team New Nigeria” movement, which supports his potential return. The movement is actively campaigning across Nigeria, aiming to rally support for Jonathan in the 2027 elections. This has reignited discussions about his candidacy, attracting attention from political observers and loyalists.
This campaign mirrors previous efforts when Jonathan’s name emerged during the 2023 elections, with APC supporters backing his bid. Despite Jonathan distancing himself from the 2023 plans, the continued mention of his name signals his relevance in politics. The growing sentiment suggests Jonathan remains a strong contender for the 2027 presidency, despite his absence.
Speculations About Northern Nigeria’s Push for Jonathan
The movement to draft Jonathan into the 2027 race has not only come from his party but also from political figures within northern Nigeria. Sources have indicated that key northern leaders are backing Jonathan’s candidacy, believing that his return could provide much-needed unity and stability for the country. Furthermore, it is argued that Jonathan is eligible for another presidential term, as he previously served from 2011 to 2015 but did not seek re-election after his defeat.
As discussions continue, Jonathan’s potential candidacy remains a hot topic. Many in the political sphere are waiting for his official stance on the issue, as his decision could drastically alter the dynamics of the 2027 election. While some see his return as a unifying move, others remain skeptical about his ability to challenge the entrenched political structures currently in place.
PDP’s Leadership Crisis: Impact on the 2027 Election
While the PDP is pushing for Jonathan’s return, the party’s internal strife could hinder its prospects in the 2027 election. The upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in February 2025 will be a decisive moment for the party’s leadership. The current leadership under acting National Chairman Umar Damagum has faced significant challenges, with calls for his resignation growing louder.
The party’s future, particularly regarding its potential presidential candidate, hinges on how the leadership crisis is resolved. If the party can overcome its internal issues and present a unified front, it could rally behind Jonathan as a viable candidate. However, continued infighting could derail the PDP’s chances, leaving the 2027 race wide open for other contenders.
APC Responds: Jonathan’s Candidacy Would Be a Non-Issue
In response to the PDP’s invitation for Jonathan to run, the APC has made it clear that they are not worried about his potential candidacy. Bala Ibrahim, the APC’s National Director of Publicity, dismissed the notion that Jonathan could pose a threat in 2027, citing his loss in the 2015 election to Muhammadu Buhari. According to Ibrahim, even if Jonathan ran again, the APC’s strong position, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, would ensure another victory for the ruling party.
While the APC downplays the possibility of Jonathan’s success, the political landscape remains unpredictable. As the PDP’s internal conflicts unfold, the future of the 2027 elections remains in flux, with Jonathan’s decision likely to have a significant impact on the overall race. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether Jonathan’s return to politics is a reality or just another chapter in Nigeria’s ever-evolving political narrative.
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