Jonathan’s 2027 Ambition Splits South-South PDP

The reported plan of former President Goodluck Jonathan to run in 2027 has caused division inside the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South.

Some members feel Jonathan should not contest against President Bola Tinubu, while some groups are openly backing him. His aides said he is still consulting on whether to join the race. Reports also claimed the PDP, NNPP and ADC have asked him to contest, but PUNCH could not confirm this.

In Bayelsa, his home state, people are waiting for Governor Douye Diri’s position. In Rivers, the camps of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and suspended Governor Sim Fubara are already on different sides. Edo PDP welcomed the idea, describing Jonathan as “a breath of fresh air.” Leaders in Delta also declared support, while Akwa Ibom PDP said they will wait for his official declaration.

Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, met Jonathan in Bayelsa to discuss his possible return to the PDP. Other leaders like Sule Lamido and Jerry Gana have also asked him to run under the PDP.

But Nigerians remain divided on whether he is eligible. The 2018 constitutional amendment stops anyone sworn in twice from running again. Still, Jonathan’s office referred to a 2022 court ruling in Yenagoa that said he can contest.

For now, many in the PDP see his return as a possible boost, while others believe it could cause more problems for the party.