Plans by former President Goodluck Jonathan for a 2027 Presidential run appear to be gaining traction, although his wife Patience has gone public about her dislike for the idea. However, according to our sources, some of his associates have been increasing their underage political preparation work and are now meeting on a regular basis.
Some insiders are claiming that the members of Jonathan’s inner circle, have actually had several clandestine meetings abroad, presumably to get a jump start on the planning to support Jonathan’s candidacy within the PDP, especially in light of the vocal opposition within his own party, from opponents such as Nyesom Wike.
The split between Wike and Jonathan would appear to be consequential, as Wike publicly suggested that Jonathan preserve his legacy and not ruin it for himself by again attempting to become President of Nigeria
Adding to the problem, Jonathan’s associates are attempting to garner support from PDP governors. For example, they are supposedly trying to pressure the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, to stay in the party, apparently because if he joins the APC, then they will lose their balance in the South-South and having Diri as a member of the PDP, is presumably a political priority
Then there is the problem of opposition forming on the inside. Jonathan’s loyalists are also concerned about Wike’s comments, because they perceive these comments as causing irreparable harm to Jonathan’s chances of gaining a nomination. This motivates them to write proposals to try to retain support and consolidate their people in the important areas while they have time.
According to insider sources, Jonathan’s entourage has dismissed concerns about his wife publicly speaking out, arguing that it happened when he was Vice President and he went ahead with it anyway. They did assure, that in this instance it would not be a deterrent either.
Meanwhile, there is also the question of eligibility as to whether Jonathan can run for President again. However, legal opinions confirm that he is still constitutionally entitled to run again because he has only served one full term.two.
In any case, despite the lack of a public statement from Jonathan, it is clear that something more than idle chatter is going on, and he is busy preparing his political machinery behind the scenes. The question is and will remain whether he intends to formally run, as well as how his opponents, both within and outside the PDP, will react to this.
Nore interesting news from the Nigerian newspapers headlines at the home page.