2027: Jonathan Faces Mounting Pressure To Drop Presidential Bid
Fresh pressure is mounting on former President Goodluck Jonathan to shelve his alleged plan to return to power in the 2027 general elections, as prominent figures in the Niger Delta intensify efforts to persuade him to instead support the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.
Findings by The PUNCH revealed that ex-militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, is leading the regional movement urging Jonathan to drop his rumoured presidential ambition and rally behind Tinubu’s second-term bid.
According to multiple sources, Tompolo, alongside key allies including the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Kestin Pondi, and the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 Bayelsa State election, Joshua Maciver, paid a private visit to Jonathan at his Otuoke residence in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on October 16.
The closed-door meeting, which reportedly lasted several hours, was Tompolo’s first public appearance in nearly a decade, a development sources say underscores the political weight of his mission.
Although Jonathan told reporters after the meeting that discussions centred on peace and stability in the Niger Delta, insiders disclosed that the visit was primarily political.
According to the sources, Tompolo’s team urged Jonathan to abandon his 2027 ambition and instead throw his support behind President Tinubu, whom they believe has demonstrated commitment to the development of the Niger Delta.
A close associate of the former president, who confirmed the meeting, said: “Niger Delta stakeholders feel Tinubu has done a lot for the region from the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to the establishment of a university in Ogoni land. They believe it is time to consolidate these gains by supporting his second-term bid.”
Another source familiar with the discussions noted that Tompolo was blunt in his message. “He told Jonathan that the region’s sentiment no longer favours his return to power and that most Niger Deltans prefer Tinubu to continue till 2031,” the source revealed.
Tompolo reportedly advised the former president to follow the example of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, who have both openly aligned with the movement for Tinubu’s re-election.
He further assured Jonathan that he could still play a significant role in the 2027 elections as a statesman without switching political parties.
“Jonathan appreciated Tompolo’s visit and promised to consider his advice carefully,” a source said. “He acknowledged the wisdom in Tompolo’s submission and pledged to make his decision known in due course.”
Meanwhile, former Labour Party governorship candidate in Bayelsa State, Udengs Eradiri, dismissed reports that Jonathan was preparing to contest the presidency, describing such claims as mere speculation.
“Until Jonathan himself declares, it remains a rumour. Tompolo’s visit is only a mark of respect to a revered leader,” he stated.
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.
