Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly moving forward with plans to contest the 2027 presidential election, according to sources close to him.
To navigate potential challenges from pro-government operatives, Jonathan’s supporters have been meeting discreetly outside Nigeria. These gatherings focus on consolidating his support base within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and addressing what insiders are calling the “Nyesom Wike problem.” Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, recently advised Jonathan against pursuing another presidential run, urging him instead to preserve his legacy. He accused those advocating for Jonathan’s candidacy of hypocrisy, recalling how they previously undermined him during the 2015 elections.
In May 2025, at an event in Abuja where she received the Women Icon Leader of the Year Award, Mrs. Jonathan expressed her concerns about the pressures of public office, stating, “The distress of Nigeria is so much that if God manages to bring you out of it, you should glorify Him. Why do you want to go back there? I need peace. My peace is enough.” She further declared her support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and committed to campaigning for his re-election.
However, sources within Jonathan’s inner circle indicate that he is not swayed by his wife’s public disapproval. Instead, he has intensified efforts to secure the PDP nomination, viewing Wike’s comments as a significant threat. An insider noted, “Wike’s opposition cannot be taken lightly, which is why some of our meetings have focused on ensuring he does not become a stumbling block.”
Jonathan is relying on key allies, including Bala Mohammed, the Governor of Bauchi State, to stabilize his support and prevent any defections that could undermine his candidacy. Notably, Jonathan’s camp successfully urged Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri to remain with the PDP, averting a potential setback in the South-South region, a crucial stronghold for Jonathan.
Addressing concerns about his wife’s disapproval, a source downplayed it, recalling that she previously opposed his vice-presidential nomination but was unable to halt his rise. Furthermore, Jonathan’s team has countered claims regarding his eligibility to run for president again, citing a court ruling that confirms his constitutional right to contest, thus dispelling doubts about his candidacy.
As the political landscape evolves, Goodluck Jonathan’s determination to reclaim the presidency may not only reshape the dynamics within the PDP but also significantly impact Nigeria’s electoral future. Keep an eye on this unfolding story as he navigates internal party politics and the complexities of public perception.
