Abuja, Nigeria – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has invited former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election under its banner.
The party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, emphasized in an exclusive interview that it would be a significant loss if Jonathan were to align with another political party.
“We have consistently called on Jonathan to complete what he started within the PDP. His contributions to the party and the nation are undeniable, and we believe he still has much to offer,” Abdullahi said. He also warned against Jonathan being swayed by the recent adulation from individuals and groups who once heavily criticized him, labeling their actions as insincere.
Abdullahi credited the PDP with shaping Nigeria’s political leadership, citing high-performing officials such as Akinwunmi Adesina, Dora Akunyili, and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as products of the party. He also took a swipe at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of hypocrisy in its alleged efforts to recruit Jonathan.
Speculations Over Goodluck Jonathan’s Return
Speculations about Jonathan’s potential return intensified following the appearance of his presidential campaign posters in Kano. The posters, bearing messages such as “The Goodluck Nigeria Needs—Dr Goodluck Jonathan,” were reportedly sponsored by a political group known as Team New Nigeria.
This development echoes a similar incident before the 2023 elections, when supporters purchased an APC presidential nomination form for Jonathan, an act he publicly distanced himself from. Sources indicate that northern political elites are championing Jonathan’s return, banking on his eligibility for a second four-year term, having previously served from 2011 to 2015.
PDP’s Internal Challenges
The PDP faces internal turmoil, with its next National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, slated for February 2025, expected to play a critical role in determining the party’s future. Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum has come under intense scrutiny, with calls for his resignation growing louder.
Sources within the party reveal that unresolved leadership disputes have delayed the NEC meeting, originally scheduled for earlier dates in 2024. Diran Odeyemi, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, suggested that Damagum may be delaying the meeting to protect his position.
“If the party truly seeks peace, it must align with Damagum and resolve internal conflicts before pursuing major changes,” Odeyemi warned.
APC Reacts to PDP’s Invitation
Reacting to the PDP’s call for Jonathan to contest, the APC dismissed the move as inconsequential. Bala Ibrahim, the APC’s National Director of Publicity, stated that Jonathan’s candidacy poses no threat to the ruling party.
“The APC defeated Jonathan when he was in power. Defeating him now will be even easier,” Ibrahim said. He added that the party remains focused on fulfilling its mandate under President Bola Tinubu, describing discussions about the 2027 elections as premature.
Ibrahim further argued that the APC’s success stems from its strong party structure, not just the influence of individual leaders like Buhari or Tinubu.
Outlook
As the PDP gears up for its February NEC meeting, party leaders acknowledge the importance of addressing internal conflicts and charting a clear path forward. The outcome of the meeting could significantly influence the party’s strategy for the 2027 elections, including whether it successfully courts Jonathan for a political comeback.
Meanwhile, the APC remains confident in its ability to maintain dominance, setting the stage for another high-stakes political battle in Nigeria’s evolving landscape.
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