Prominent northern leaders are intensifying their efforts to convince former President Goodluck Jonathan to enter the presidential race for 2027, presenting a substantial challenge to President Bola Tinubu's re-election campaign amid increasing dissatisfaction with his administration.
Sources indicated that a governor from the North East and a retired General from the North West are at the forefront of this initiative. They point to the 1999 Constitution, which permits a president to serve a maximum of two terms of four years each, positioning Jonathan as a viable candidate eligible for one additional four-year term after his previous tenure.
Northern leaders view Jonathan’s extensive experience and broad appeal across the South as significant assets. His potential to attract support in 17 states is also seen as a major advantage.
In August, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed expressed his backing for Jonathan, declaring he would withdraw his own presidential ambitions to support Jonathan “with his blood” if the former president chooses to run.
Mohammed stated, “Regarding your suggestion that I should present myself, I am still considering my prospects as an opposition leader. I recognize the leadership qualities within the PDP, particularly in my former boss, Goodluck Jonathan. I have always maintained that as long as Jonathan is an option, I will not seek leadership unless he opts out of the race. If we can convince him to step forward, I will wholeheartedly support him. He has yet to show interest, but I hope you will encourage him to run.
“He possesses the necessary experience to lead effectively, understanding the realities of inflation and rising costs. During his presidency, he was inclusive, addressing critical issues like the Almajiri system and initiating programs for unemployed youth. His approach to leadership was exemplary. We need leaders like him—dynamic individuals with vision and energy,” he said.
According to the Tribune Newspaper, the movement to promote Jonathan for the 2027 election is gaining traction, with extensive lobbying efforts directed at key stakeholders across all six geopolitical zones. Civil society organizations, pro-democracy groups, and other advocacy bodies are being engaged to support this initiative.
However, there is also dissent among certain factions. A counter-movement composed of governors and key political figures is advocating for a different southern candidate to assume the presidency, although both sides are united in their opposition to Tinubu’s re-election.
It’s worth noting that similar efforts were made to draw Jonathan into the race under the All Progressives Congress (APC) prior to the 2023 elections. At that time, his spokesperson, Ikechukwu Eze, asserted that Jonathan had not authorized the acquisition of nomination forms for the election.
“While we appreciate the strong demand from many Nigerians for Dr. Jonathan to participate in the 2023 presidential election, we clarify that he has not committed to this request in any form. We want to emphasize that Dr. Jonathan was unaware of this initiative and did not give his approval,” Eze stated.
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