2027 Presidency: Jonathan Splits PDP South-South Into Rival Camps
The reported 2027 ambition of former President Goodluck Jonathan has polarised the Peoples Democratic Party in the South-South, with stakeholders torn between backing the ex-leader and opposing his return.
While several political pressure groups and PDP chapters in the region have openly drummed support for Jonathan, others have urged caution, arguing that his candidacy could unsettle the party and weaken its chances against President Bola Tinubu.
Jonathan, who left office in 2015, has not declared interest in the race but aides confirmed he was still consulting on whether to contest. He is said to have been approached not only by the PDP but also by the New Nigeria Peoples Party and the African Democratic Congress to fly their flags in 2027.
The development has already triggered sharp divisions among PDP leaders in Bayelsa and Rivers states. Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa has yet to make a public pronouncement on the matter, with party officials insisting that only the governor, as state leader of the party, could provide direction.
In Rivers, the split between loyalists of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has widened. Wike’s camp dismissed calls for Jonathan to re-enter the ring, saying he had served his time and was no longer active in party affairs. But Fubara’s allies described the reported bid as a welcome development, insisting that Jonathan’s record in office qualified him for another shot at the presidency.
The Edo chapter of the PDP was unequivocal, describing Jonathan as a “breath of fresh air” and pledging to rally support if he declared. Party leaders in Delta also gave their backing, with several chieftains promising “100 per cent support” for the former president. However, Akwa Ibom PDP leaders said they would not take a position until Jonathan made his decision public.
To strengthen the PDP’s chances in 2027, Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, recently met Jonathan in Bayelsa to canvass his return to the party. Other prominent figures, including former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and elder statesman Jerry Gana, have also called on him to contest.
Despite the mounting pressure, Jonathan’s eligibility remains a subject of controversy. Sections 137(3) and 182(3) of the Constitution bar anyone sworn in twice as president or governor from seeking the office again.
Critics argue that Jonathan, having completed Umaru Yar’Adua’s tenure before winning election in 2011, falls within that category.
However, a 2022 Federal High Court judgment delivered in Yenagoa ruled that Jonathan remained qualified to contest. His office has since cited the ruling to dismiss concerns about his ineligibility.
Meanwhile, the Pan Niger Delta Forum has maintained its stance that the presidency should remain in the South in 2027, urging northern aspirants to shelve their ambitions.
Similarly, the Ijaw Youth Council pledged to stand behind Jonathan if he declared but cautioned that he must weigh the political realities carefully.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
