Political analysts in Kano have expressed differing views over the possibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan returning to contest the 2027 presidential election amid growing speculation within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Political analyst Kabiru Ojo argued that Jonathan may not be a strong option for the Northern political bloc due to concerns over power rotation, regional interests, and distrust among Northern elites. While he noted that some ordinary Northerners remember Jonathan’s administration more favourably because of lower economic hardship, he said many would still prefer a Northern candidate if one emerges in 2027.
Ojo also claimed Northern political elites may resist Jonathan’s return because of lingering political tensions from the 2015 election, when a coalition defeated him. He added that Jonathan’s candidacy on the PDP platform could complicate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election chances by preventing a one-party dominance scenario.
Meanwhile, another analyst, Aminu Rabiu, said the performances of former President Muhammadu Buhari and Tinubu have improved public perception of Jonathan’s presidency. According to him, many Nigerians now see Jonathan as a more democratic and stabilising leader compared to the current situation of insecurity and economic hardship.
Rabiu said Jonathan’s international peace and democracy engagements after leaving office have also strengthened his image both locally and globally. He argued that Jonathan could still perform strongly against Tinubu if he decides to contest.
Despite this, Rabiu maintained that Jonathan may have already completed his political journey, noting that he served as Acting President and later as elected president between 2009 and 2015.
The debate comes amid reports that a PDP faction led by Tanimu Turaki adopted Jonathan as its preferred 2027 presidential candidate. However, Jonathan’s aide, Jude Imagwe, dismissed the reports, insisting the former president has neither accepted any nomination nor declared interest in the race.
The issue of Jonathan’s eligibility for the 2027 election is also before a Federal High Court in Abuja, which is expected to deliver judgment on May 26 regarding whether his previous time in office amounts to two constitutional terms.
