Former President Goodluck Jonathan may be gearing up for a dramatic return to Nigeria’s political stage as the 2027 general elections approach, according to a close political ally who revealed that the ex-leader is “seriously considering” another run for the presidency.
The ally, who spoke under condition of anonymity, said consultations have intensified among political heavyweights within and outside the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with mounting pressure on Jonathan to contest, particularly from interest groups in the North and South-South regions.
Dr. Jonathan has not ruled out the possibility of contesting in 2027. In fact, he has given the green light to key supporters to begin quiet mobilisation,” the source disclosed. “He believes Nigeria is at a turning point and that he has the experience to unify and stabilize the country once again.
This isn’t the first time the former president’s name has been floated in connection with a potential comeback. Rumours of his return gained traction in 2022 when he was seen meeting with top APC figures, including President Bola Tinubu, shortly before the 2023 elections. Although he eventually stayed out of the race, the idea of a Jonathan return has remained a recurring theme in political circles.
Jonathan, who served as president from 2010 to 2015, lost his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015. His graceful concession of defeat won him global praise, solidifying his image as a statesman. Since leaving office, he has engaged in international peace missions and democracy advocacy through various platforms, including the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation.
With debates already heating up over zoning and power rotation, Jonathan’s potential candidacy is likely to spark intense political realignments. Analysts note that if he runs and wins, he would be constitutionally allowed only one term a factor that some political strategists believe could appeal to power blocs looking for a transitional figure before the next generation of politicians emerge.
Jonathan’s one-term limit makes him a compromise candidate,” political analyst, Dr. Samson Adetola, said. “He could serve as a bridge between the old guard and the future leadership Nigeria desperately needs.”
While Jonathan remains a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), strong speculation persists that he may run under the APC platform especially considering his growing relationship with northern APC governors and influential figures within the party. However, PDP loyalists continue to insist that he is their best chance at reclaiming power in 2027 and are lobbying to keep him in the party.
Reactions to the possible return of the former president have been mixed. Some Nigerians recall his tenure with nostalgia, praising his democratic values, economic reforms, and handling of civil liberties. Others, however, believe Nigeria needs fresh faces and new ideas, not a return to past leadership.
President Jonathan is respected, no doubt,” said Lagos-based voter Ngozi Eke. “But we need to move forward. Nigeria needs younger, visionary leaders who can tackle today’s problems head-on.”
As the political tempo builds ahead of 2027, all eyes are now on the former president to make his intentions public. For now, his silence continues to fuel speculation and strategic calculations across the political spectrum.
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