Former President Goodluck Jonthan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reportedly finalized plans to contest the 2027 presidential election, selecting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as his vehicle for a return to Aso Rock.

Sources close to the former leader confirmed to Vanguard on Sunday that the decision followed extensive strategic deliberations. The move aims to position Jonathan as a stabilizing figure capable of addressing Nigeria’s current economic challenges, including rising poverty and nationwide hardship.

Groups Jostle to Fund N100 Million Nomination Form

The confirmation of Jonathan’s candidacy has triggered a competitive drive among various support groups eager to purchase the PDP’s expression of interest and nomination forms, currently priced at N100 million. With the submission deadline looming this Tuesday, several entities are vying for the honor of sponsoring his bid:

• The Goodluckan Movement: A diaspora based group asserting global representation.

• The Coalition for Jonathan: A youth led organization that has previously organized rallies at the former president’s office.

• The New Nigeria (TNN): A mass-based movement with significant influence in Northern Nigeria.

• Regional Blocs: Various organizations including the Almajiri Network, Arewa for Good Governance, and the Northern Youth Alliance for Good Governance.

While Jonathan previously disowned a N100 million APC form purchased for him by a Northern group in 2022, insiders suggest his current stance is definitive.

PDP Alignment and Eligibility

The PDP leadership has moved swiftly to clear the air regarding Jonathan’s partisan status. Party spokesperson Barrister Ini Ememobong confirmed that the former president completed his online registration with the party earlier this year. This statement follows an earlier announcement by the Turaki-led faction affirming that Jonathan has met the necessary criteria to seek the party's ticket.

Legal Hurdles and the Path Forward

To secure his path to the polls, Jonathan has proactively approached a Federal High Court in Abuja. He is currently challenging a legal suit filed by a lawyer seeking to bar him from office on the grounds that he has already served two terms.

"Jonathan has made up his mind to run, hoping to convince Nigerians to re-elect him to revamp the economy and reduce the level of hardship in the land," a top official stated.

The outcome of this judicial intervention will be the ultimate factor in determining if the former president can legally challenge the incumbent administration in the 2027 general elections.