Former President Goodluck Jonathan is once again at the centre of Nigeria’s political attention as discussions intensify over his possible return to the presidential race ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political analysts say that if Jonathan decides to contest, he will face a dual test his eligibility under the constitution and his popularity among voters, both of which are already generating heated debate within political circles.
The controversy stems from constitutional questions surrounding Jonathan’s eligibility to run for office after he previously completed the tenure of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua between 2010 and 2011 and was later elected for a full term from 2011 to 2015.
According to Section 137(3) of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended), a person who has held the office of President to complete another’s term can only be elected once more. Legal experts are divided on whether this clause permanently bars Jonathan from contesting again.
While some constitutional lawyers insist that Jonathan has exhausted his eligibility, others argue that since the amendment was made after he left office, it cannot be applied retroactively.
Beyond legality, observers say Jonathan’s popularity and political influence will also be tested. His appeal among Nigerians, particularly in the South-South and parts of the North, remains strong, but analysts believe the 2027 contest will be more competitive and issue-driven.
Already, there are reports of quiet consultations among his loyalists and movements lobbying for his comeback under various political platforms. Some groups within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have been linked to the speculation, though Jonathan himself has not publicly declared any interest.
A source close to the former president said he is “carefully observing the political climate” and will only make a decision after broad consultations.
>Dr. Jonathan remains committed to peace and national unity. However, he believes leadership should be about service, not ambition. Any future political decision will be made in the interest of the country,” the source stated.
For now, attention remains on how the legal and political debates unfold, as Nigerians watch closely to see whether Goodluck Jonathan will once again test his political fortune in 2027 — and if the law and public sentiment will stand in his way.
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