The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged former President Goodluck Jonathan to consider running for the presidency in the 2027 elections under its platform.
Ibrahim Abdullahi, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, expressed regret over the possibility of Jonathan choosing a different party for his presidential run.
He emphasized that Jonathan’s return would be pivotal for the party, given his historical ties to its leadership.
Abdullahi highlighted the PDP’s crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape, citing prominent figures who have emerged from the party.
He also noted the party’s ongoing connection to Jonathan’s political rise, urging him to “complete the term he began” within the PDP.
Abdullahi further criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for its perceived hypocrisy, particularly regarding Jonathan’s legacy, and warned the former president to be cautious of sudden support from those who once criticized him.
This call comes after the sighting of Jonathan’s presidential campaign posters across major streets in Kano, leading to speculations about his possible return to politics.
The posters, promoting a movement called ‘Team New Nigeria,’ echo a similar scenario from the 2023 elections, when Jonathan’s supporters purchased nomination forms under the APC, a move he distanced himself from.
Some northern political figures are reportedly attempting to draft Jonathan into the 2027 race, arguing that he is eligible for another term after serving as president from 2011 to 2015.
Meanwhile, the PDP is facing internal turbulence, with party leadership struggling to reconcile differing factions.
Sources within the party predict that its upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, scheduled for February 2025, will be crucial in determining the party’s direction.
The meeting is expected to address leadership issues and the ongoing criticisms of acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum.
A source close to the party emphasized that the NEC meeting’s agenda will have lasting implications for the PDP, with delays in convening the meeting potentially harming the party’s future.
Some party members, however, have argued that Damagum, a shrewd politician, will do everything in his power to delay the meeting, as it may lead to his removal.
