PDP Invites Jonathan to Contest 2027 Presidency

PDP Invites Jonathan to Contest 2027 Presidency as APC Dismisses Threat

 

The political atmosphere in Nigeria is heating up as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally called on former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election under its banner. However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the prospect, asserting that Jonathan stands no chance against the ruling party.

 

PDP Urges Jonathan to Return

 

Speaking in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi highlighted the party’s desire for Jonathan to rejoin its ranks and complete what he started. Abdullahi underscored the party’s pivotal role in Jonathan’s political ascent and emphasized the need for him to remain loyal to the PDP.

 

“It would be a huge disappointment if Jonathan chose another platform,” Abdullahi said, adding, “The PDP has produced some of Nigeria’s most notable leaders, including Jonathan. We remain committed to reclaiming our place as the nation’s leading party.”

 

He also cautioned Jonathan to be wary of newfound praise from groups that previously vilified him, warning against being swayed by their sudden affection.

 

 

 

Jonathan’s Presidential Posters Spark Speculation

 

The sighting of campaign posters featuring Jonathan across major streets in Kano has intensified rumors of his potential return to the political stage. The posters, bearing slogans like “Team New Nigeria 2027: The Goodluck Nigeria Needs,” were reportedly distributed by a political movement known as “Team New Nigeria.”

 

This development mirrors events ahead of the 2023 elections when Jonathan’s supporters bought him a nomination form under the APC, which he publicly disassociated himself from. Reports also suggest that northern political figures are working to draft Jonathan into the race, banking on his eligibility to serve one more term, having previously governed from 2011 to 2015.

 

 

 

PDP’s NEC Meeting to Decide Party’s Fate

 

Meanwhile, the PDP’s future rests heavily on its upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for February 2025. Party insiders believe the meeting will address pressing internal issues, including leadership disputes and reconciliation efforts.

 

Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum has faced growing criticism since assuming the role after Senator Iyorchia Ayu’s court-ordered removal. Calls for his resignation have escalated, with some party members suggesting that Damagum is deliberately stalling the NEC meeting to avoid being ousted.

 

A source within the PDP remarked, “The NEC meeting will be pivotal in determining the party’s direction. The longer it is delayed, the more harm it does to the PDP’s unity and public image.”

 

 

 

APC Dismisses Jonathan’s Potential Bid

 

Reacting to the PDP’s invitation to Jonathan, APC National Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim dismissed the possibility of Jonathan posing any challenge to the ruling party. Ibrahim cited the APC’s victory over Jonathan in the 2015 election as evidence of the former president’s diminished political influence.

 

“There’s no scenario where Jonathan can defeat the APC, whether in power or out of power,” Ibrahim declared. “In 2015, we beat him when he was the incumbent. Defeating him now would be even easier. The APC’s strength lies in its structure, not just individual popularity.”

 

Ibrahim also criticized discussions about the 2027 election, noting that the Tinubu-led government still has the majority of its mandate to deliver. “It’s premature to discuss 2027. We’re focused on fulfilling the promises made to Nigerians,” he said.

 

 

 

What Lies Ahead

 

As both parties position themselves for the 2027 elections, the PDP hopes to rally around Jonathan to rebuild its waning influence, while the APC remains confident in its ability to maintain dominance. The next few years will be critical in shaping the political landscape as both parties navigate internal and external challenges.