Jonathan Under Pressure from Northern Politicians to Contest 2027 Election

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly facing mounting pressure to run in the 2027 presidential election.

The push for Jonathan’s candidacy is said to be coming from Northern political circles, who are increasingly dissatisfied with President Bola Tinubu’s policies, which they believe are contributing to the ongoing economic hardship in the country.

According to some Northern political stakeholders, Jonathan is seen as an ideal candidate because he would be limited to serving a single four-year term, making him a favorable option for the region’s long-term political strategy.

Sources cited by Boss Newspaper, a publication founded by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Dele Momodu, claim that Jonathan’s previous administration under the PDP had more favorable plans for the North compared to those of former President Muhammadu Buhari and current President Bola Tinubu.

“Jonathan is viewed as a strategic choice because he can only serve one more term, having already completed his first four years. This scenario could potentially align with the North’s desire to regain power in 2031,” one source explained.

The source further emphasized the contrast between the current economic difficulties under the APC governments of Buhari and Tinubu and the conditions during Jonathan’s tenure, suggesting that a return of Jonathan could help restore stability and prosperity.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has also expressed his reluctance to contest the 2027 presidential race if Jonathan decides to run. As the chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Mohammed has been vocal about his admiration for Jonathan’s leadership, stating that he would fully support the former president’s candidacy.

Governor Mohammed highlighted the better economic conditions under Jonathan’s administration, noting that the former president was more inclusive in addressing issues affecting the Northern region, such as the Almajiri system and youth unemployment.

“I have always maintained that as long as Jonathan is in the picture, I will not seek the presidency unless he chooses not to run,” said Mohammed. “If we can convince him to step forward, I will support him wholeheartedly. His leadership experience and inclusive approach make him the leader we need.”