2027 Presidency Battle: South-South PDP Divided as Ex-President Jonathan's Plot To Return Deepens

• Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s possible 2027 ambition has split the South-South PDP, with factions, states and groups taking opposing positions
• While Edo and Delta PDP back his return, Rivers remains divided, Bayelsa cautious, and Akwa Ibom and Ijaw groups undecided pending Jonathan’s declaration
• National PDP leaders and PANDEF urge a southern presidency in 2027, as Jonathan consults quietly amid a 2022 court ruling affirming his eligibility

The reported 2027 ambition of former President Goodluck Jonathan has split the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South.

This is as stakeholders and political camps sharply divided over his possible return.

2027: Jonathan yet to declare intention

Though Jonathan has not formally declared his intention to run, aides have confirmed that he is consulting widely. Reports suggest he has been approached by the PDP, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to contest.

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A Federal High Court ruling in Yenagoa in 2022 had affirmed his eligibility to contest again, despite constitutional concerns about being sworn in twice.

Bayelsa PDP keeps mum

In Jonathan’s home state of Bayelsa, party leaders are cautious. Acting PDP Chairman, George Turnah said:

“The governor is the leader of the party in the state. At that level, the governor will be in a better position to give a firm answer. For now, the story of President Jonathan is still in the realm of speculation. When he comes out to declare, that’s when the conversation will begin.”

Rivers PDP factions disagree

The ambition has exposed cracks in Rivers PDP. The faction loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike dismissed Jonathan’s relevance, while the camp aligned with suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara welcomed the idea.

Kenneth Yorwika, Rivers PDP spokesman and Wike loyalist, said:

“Jonathan has not been active in our party. We have not seen him in any of our activities recently. He did his time and, frankly, President Tinubu is making efforts to improve citizens’ lives. We think Jonathan’s time has passed.”

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But Chief Ogbonna Nwuke, a Fubara ally, countered:

“Jonathan handed over power peacefully, his time brought some stability, and many Nigerians believe he can provide the kind of leadership needed now. If the law is on his side, then why should anyone stop him?”

Edo, Delta back Jonathan

In Edo, PDP leaders were more welcoming. State Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, described Jonathan as one of Nigeria’s most qualified leaders, as reported by Punch.

“His tenure continues to stand as a reference point for good governance. His return would be a breath of fresh air for the country,” Nehikhare said.

Delta PDP also pledged support. South-South PDP caretaker chairman, Emmanuel Ogidi, declared:

“If he comes on board, I will support him. Every party man supports any member contesting for election.”

Akwa Ibom, Ijaw groups cautious

Akwa Ibom PDP said it would reserve judgment until Jonathan makes a formal declaration. State Chairman, Aniekan Akpan, stressed:

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“We will wait until he declares his ambition. Personally, I am not aware that he is coming back.”

The Ijaw Youth Council voiced pride in Jonathan’s global reputation but warned against him being lured into a contest.

President Jonathan Lokpobiri said:

“If he chooses to run, we will stand with him, but I strongly advise against it. Nigeria already has a Southern presidency, and the politics of 2027 could be deceptive.”

PANDEF insists on southern presidency

Meanwhile, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) reiterated its demand that the presidency remain in the South, Vanguard reported.

National Publicity Secretary, Dr Obiuwevbi Ominimini, said:

“The next President of Nigeria in 2027 must come from Southern Nigeria. Buhari did eight years. Now it is the South’s turn. Atiku and other northern aspirants should shelve their ambitions for the sake of fairness and equity.”

PDP national leaders weigh in

PDP bigwigs, including Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, ex-Governor Sule Lamido and Prof Jerry Gana, have all urged Jonathan to run. Bala, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, even held talks with Jonathan in Bayelsa on his possible return to the party’s fold.

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Breaking: Wike finally speaks on return of Jonathan in 2027: “For Christ’s sake"

As the debate rages, Jonathan’s silence continues to fuel speculation. For many, the 2027 race may become a test not only of his eligibility but also of whether Nigerians believe he still holds the magic touch.

Jonathan's campaign in 2027 explained

Previously, Legit.ng reported that Goodluck Jonathan, the former President, has allegedly started planning to contest the 2027 presidential election, despite public rejection of the ambition from his wife, Patience.

She added that the current peace she enjoys is enough for her and subsequently endorsed the administration of President Bola Tinubu. She also promised to campaign for Tinubu's second term in office.

Source: Legit.ng