POLITICS
2027: JONATHAN CONSIDERS ADC PLATFORM AMID SPECULATIONS OF POLITICAL COMEBACK
Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly considering aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, as the party’s coalition of opposition groups intensifies consultations with influential political figures across the country.
According to credible sources within the ADC National Working Committee, who preferred not to be named, the former president has held discussions with key party leaders as part of ongoing deliberations about the next election cycle.
Recent developments have fueled speculation that Jonathan may return to contest the 2027 presidential election, potentially against President Bola Tinubu. Although he has not made any official declaration, several figures within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have urged him to run on the party’s platform. While some Nigerians welcome the idea—suggesting even alternative political platforms—others have advised him against re-entering the race.
Public opinion remains divided on Jonathan’s eligibility due to the 2018 constitutional amendment, which bars any individual who has been sworn in twice as president or governor from contesting again.
In what appears to be part of wider consultations, Jonathan has in recent months increased his public engagements, attending numerous national events and holding private meetings with political leaders. Notably, he met with Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Abuja on September 12, and later held discussions with ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, and other coalition leaders on September 25.
A senior ADC official disclosed that Jonathan’s meeting with the coalition leadership was primarily focused on the 2027 presidential race.
The source stated, “Dr. Jonathan is a respected and patriotic Nigerian who would be a great asset to our party. The ADC has maintained consistent communication with him, and discussions have centered on Nigeria’s political future. We believe the ADC represents a credible alternative platform for all Nigerians, including the former president.”
Another party insider revealed that Jonathan’s decision to join the ADC might depend on whether he is offered the presidential ticket unopposed, particularly in a scenario where figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi agree to a consensus arrangement.
He added, “Jonathan has been in touch with our leaders, discussing national challenges, especially how the ruling party has weakened democratic institutions and worsened the economic and security situation. The ADC remains the most viable opposition platform, independent of the ruling APC’s influence. If the party grants him the ticket, he may run under its banner. While he hasn’t made his ambition public, ongoing discussions strongly suggest that possibility.”
The ADC National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufai, confirmed that Jonathan’s meeting with Mark focused on Nigeria’s future.
He said, “Every patriotic Nigerian today seeks a credible alternative, and the ADC provides that option. The PDP and Labour Party are struggling with internal crises and have lost public confidence, but the ADC stands out for its trusted leadership and integrity. Dr. Jonathan has written his name in gold both in Nigeria and internationally, so his engagement with our leaders is not surprising. They are discussing the country’s future and exploring solutions to its challenges.”
Rufai added that many opposition members have been defecting to the ADC due to frustration with their party leadership, which they believe has compromised with the ruling establishment.
Confirming the series of political consultations, ADC National Treasurer, Mani Ibrahim, said the party and its coalition partners have been holding meetings nationwide to strengthen their strategy for 2027.
According to him, “We’ve held several meetings with prominent Nigerians and have more planned. Our roadmap is clear—we are building a people-focused movement to address poverty, hunger, insecurity, and the general hardship facing citizens. Nigerians are tired of the current administration, and they see in us a trustworthy alternative capable of bringing meaningful change.”
He added that the ADC’s momentum continues to grow across the country, particularly among young people who represent a major voting bloc.
In response, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said Jonathan would face defeat if he re-enters the race under any platform.
He remarked, “Our party defeated him when he was most confident under the PDP, which once boasted it would rule for 60 years. How then can he defeat us now under a party with no national structure? The ADC is not organized, and with the overwhelming public support the APC enjoys, we are confident of victory in 2027.”
Efforts to reach key representatives of the ADC, PDP, and Labour Party for comments were unsuccessful as of press time.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board