Former president, Goodluck Jonathan has reportedly agreed to run for presidency in 2027.
This follows strong pressure from top leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and influential political figures across the country.
According to a close ally within the PDP, Jonathan has accepted to contest and is already consulting widely as party elders and political stakeholders rally around him.
Vanguard reports that his decision is said to be based on growing concern over the worsening economic hardship and insecurity facing Nigerians, with many supporters believing his return could bring stability.
Jonathan, who hails from Bayelsa State, has reportedly held private meetings with several northern political figures, including a recent visit to former military leader Ibrahim Babangida in Minna, Niger State.
He is also meeting key leaders in the South-South as consultations intensify ahead of formal declarations.
Within the PDP, several governors and national officers are backing the move, believing Jonathan’s candidacy could unify the party and pose a strong challenge to incumbent President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
There are discussions around offering him an automatic ticket, though sources say Jonathan has requested clarity on the nomination process and conditions before fully committing.
The idea of a one-term presidency is also being pushed as part of the plan.
Supporters argue that since Jonathan has already served one full term, he can only contest for another four years, which would open the way for power to return to the north by 2031.
Automatic Ticket
Meanwhile, Jonathan has been told by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that he could receive an automatic ticket but only if he comes back fully into the party and becomes more involved in its political affairs.
This was revealed by Daniel Woyengikuro, the PDP’s National Financial Secretary, during a recent interview.
He said that Jonathan still holds great value within the party and is seen as a strong figure who can lead both the PDP and the country forward.
According to him, Jonathan remains one of the most respected leaders in the party after former president Olusegun Obasanjo.
Woyengikuro explained that Jonathan is considered the national leader of the PDP and would be a welcome choice for the party’s presidential ticket in 2027.
He added that he personally supports the idea of giving Jonathan the ticket automatically, but this would depend on the former president’s willingness to return fully and take up his role in the party once again.
