Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s speculated return to the 2027 presidential race is generating divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South, his political base. While some state chapters welcome the idea, others remain cautious or outrightly opposed, reflecting the deepening cracks in the party ahead of the next general elections.
Mixed reactions across states
In Bayelsa, Jonathan’s home state, party leaders have so far remained silent, preferring to wait for the position of Governor Douye Diri before taking a stand. Insiders say Jonathan’s influence in the state remains strong, but any decision will likely be shaped by Diri’s political calculations.
In Edo State, PDP leaders appear enthusiastic. The state’s Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, praised Jonathan’s past leadership and said members would rally behind him if he declares his intention to contest.
Delta PDP is also signaling readiness to support Jonathan’s bid, describing him as the South-South’s strongest political asset if he decides to run.
Akwa Ibom leaders, however, are more restrained. They insist that Jonathan must first make his decision public before any formal backing can be considered.
Rivers state: The epicenter of division
The sharpest divisions are playing out in Rivers State. The faction loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is against Jonathan’s return, arguing that he is no longer active within the party’s structures. On the other hand, supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara say Jonathan remains one of Nigeria’s most credible leaders and deserve another chance at the presidency.
Pressure from political allies
Beyond the South-South, Jonathan is said to be under pressure from influential allies to run. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi reportedly met him in Bayelsa to push for his return. Former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido and elder statesman Jerry Gana have also spoken in favor of Jonathan contesting on the PDP platform.
Eligibility debate
Questions about Jonathan’s constitutional eligibility have resurfaced, with some arguing that a 2018 amendment bars anyone who has served more than one term from seeking re-election. However, Jonathan’s camp points to a 2022 Federal High Court ruling in Yenagoa that cleared him to contest, should he choose to.
Regional and youth perspectives
The Ijaw Youth Council, representing Jonathan’s ethnic base, has expressed conditional support. While they say they will back him if he decides to run, the group doubts that Jonathan would sacrifice his international stature to return to Nigeria’s turbulent politics.
Similarly, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has reiterated its stance that the presidency must return to the South in 2027. While not naming Jonathan directly, the group insists it will support any competent Southern candidate, with Jonathan naturally included in that bracket.
A divided path ahead
With the PDP still struggling to rebuild its national image, Jonathan’s potential candidacy has exposed fault lines within the South-South. Supporters see him as a unifying figure with proven experience, while opponents argue his time has passed. For now, Jonathan has remained silent, leaving speculation and political maneuvering to define the discourse.
