Former President Goodluck Jonathan is being positioned for a potential return to presidential politics in 2027, according to sources close to the ex-Nigerian leader who claim extensive behind-the-scenes preparations are already underway for a challenge against incumbent President Bola Tinubu.
A prominent ally within the Peoples Democratic Party has revealed that efforts to draft Jonathan for the 2027 presidential race have advanced significantly, with the former president allegedly accepting overtures from party leaders and Nigerian elders who believe his leadership could address the country’s mounting economic challenges and widespread hardship.
The source indicated that influential figures across Nigeria’s political landscape have been actively encouraging Jonathan’s return, arguing that his previous six-year administration provided stability and economic progress that the country currently lacks. These leaders reportedly view Jonathan as the ideal candidate to restore Nigeria’s diminished international standing and tackle the severe poverty and suffering affecting millions of citizens.
According to the insider, Jonathan has begun conducting strategic consultations with key political figures both within and outside the PDP structure. Most notably, the former president reportedly met with retired military leader General Ibrahim Babangida at his Minna residence last weekend, where he briefed the influential northern politician about his intention to seek a single presidential term beginning in 2027.
While the source did not disclose General Babangida’s specific response to Jonathan’s proposal, they expressed confidence that northern political stakeholders have been receptive to the former president’s potential candidacy. The consultation strategy appears designed to build broad-based support across Nigeria’s complex regional and ethnic political networks.
The ally further disclosed that Jonathan is currently conducting intensive meetings with critical stakeholders throughout the South-South region, his traditional political stronghold, to secure unwavering support for his anticipated campaign. The former president has reportedly been active in Port Harcourt and other regional centers, though specific details about meeting participants remain confidential.
Political observers suggest that Jonathan’s South-South base would likely provide solid electoral foundation for any presidential bid, given his origins in Bayelsa State and historical support from the oil-producing region.
The reported comeback preparations come amid growing criticism of the current administration’s economic policies and their impact on ordinary Nigerians. However, Jonathan himself has not made any public statements confirming or denying these political maneuverings, leaving his actual intentions unclear as speculation continues to intensify across Nigeria’s political circles.
