2027 Presidency: PDP urges Jonathan to return as NEC meeting looms

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially invited former President Goodluck Jonathan to run for the 2027 presidential election under its banner.

Ibrahim Abdullahi, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, emphasized that the party is keen on Jonathan’s return, highlighting his leadership credentials and the significant role the party has played in shaping Nigeria’s governance.

“Jonathan’s return would be monumental for the PDP and Nigeria at large,” Abdullahi stated. “The PDP has always produced transformational leaders—figures like El-Rufai, Okonjo-Iweala, Dora Akunyili, Akinwunmi Adesina, and Amina Mohammed are testaments to our legacy. Jonathan’s leadership is a continuation of this proud tradition.”

He also cautioned Jonathan against the “deceptive praise” from the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging him to remember the criticisms he faced from the ruling party in the past. “Those who once mocked and vilified him are now pretending to celebrate him. He should remain wary of their intentions,” Abdullahi added.

Speculation about Jonathan’s potential return to the political scene has been fueled by his presidential posters appearing in Kano.

The posters, distributed by a group called Team New Nigeria, bore slogans such as, “The Goodluck Nigeria Needs—Dr. Goodluck Jonathan 2027.” Reports also suggest that prominent northern political figures are backing Jonathan’s bid, citing his eligibility for one more four-year term.

The move comes amidst growing dissatisfaction among Northern elders with President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, which has intensified calls for a strong opposition candidate. This has also sparked conversations about other PDP figures like Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi.

Meanwhile, the future direction of the PDP is expected to be decided at its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for February 2025.

The meeting, postponed multiple times since August 2024, is anticipated to address critical issues such as leadership disputes and internal litigations.

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, has tasked the National Working Committee with ensuring the NEC meeting holds as planned.

However, sources indicate logistical and strategic disagreements are causing delays.

One party insider noted, “The NEC meeting is pivotal. The decisions made there will shape the PDP’s future. Every delay raises the stakes and complicates resolutions.”

Diran Odeyemi, former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, hinted that deeper divisions within the party might be stalling progress.

“Aligning with Damagum’s leadership is essential for peace. A rushed NEC meeting could trigger further crises,” he warned.

The NEC meeting, initially slated for August 2024, has been postponed several times, most recently in November. Party members now view the February 2025 meeting as critical for resolving lingering disputes and setting the stage for the 2027 elections.