Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly weighing a return to Nigeria’s presidential race ahead of the 2027 general election, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expected to be his platform.
Sources close to Jonathan say several support groups have begun mobilising and raising funds to purchase the PDP nomination form for him. The move follows months of private consultations within his political camp.
A senior associate confirmed that the decision to work with the PDP again was reached after “careful political calculations” on which party offers the strongest path back to power.
According to insiders, Jonathan believes Nigeria is grappling with economic hardship, insecurity and rising poverty, and feels his experience in office could help stabilise the country if he returns.
Groups reportedly pressuring him to declare include the Coalition for Jonathan, The New Nigeria Movement, Goodies Movement, Northern Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan, and other northern political groups. The Goodluckian Movement, said to be backed by Nigerians in the diaspora, is also pushing to buy the form for him. Members argue he still commands support across regions and abroad.
Within the PDP, the calls for Jonathan’s return are already shaping early discussions for 2027. The party’s nomination form is expected to cost about ₦100 million.
Jonathan has not made a public declaration, but sources say consultations are ongoing and he has become more open to running.
The reports have sparked mixed reactions. While some stakeholders say he has the constitutional right to contest, others warn a comeback could affect the reputation he built after leaving office in 2015.
Groups that have weighed in include Afenifere, the Middle Belt Forum, the Christian Association of Nigeria, and several northern political stakeholders.
PDP spokesman Ini Ememobong confirmed Jonathan remains a registered party member, saying his re-registration was completed earlier this year.
The renewed interest has also revived legal debate over his eligibility. Reports say Jonathan has approached a Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge a suit seeking to bar him from the 2027 race on grounds that he has already served two terms.
