Jonathan set to join 2027 presidential race amid growing opposition coalition
By KEMI KASUMU and OUR REPORTER, Abuja
The source also referenced the recent purchase of a presidential nomination form by former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as part of broader coalition-building efforts.
Fresh indications emerging from Nigeria’s political landscape suggest that former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan may be preparing to enter the 2027 presidential race, following mounting pressure from opposition groups seeking a unified candidate to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the February 2027 general election.
Multiple political sources familiar with ongoing consultations disclosed on Friday that Jonathan has begun seriously considering appeals urging him to contest, with expectations growing that he could formally declare his intention within days.
According to insiders, discussions intensified as legal proceedings concerning Jonathan’s constitutional eligibility to seek another term continue before a Federal High Court. A decision in the matter is reportedly expected on May 8, 2026.
One source close to opposition negotiations described Jonathan’s possible entry into the race as a defining moment for Nigeria’s emerging 2027 political alignment.
“Once Jonathan joins the race, the real politics for 2027 will begin,” the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Opposition coalition pushes for single candidate
Political observers say Jonathan’s potential candidacy is tied to ongoing efforts by opposition parties to present a united front against the ruling administration.
At a recent opposition summit held in Ibadan, leaders of several political blocs reportedly agreed in principle to work towards producing a single presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
The source also referenced the recent purchase of a presidential nomination form by former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as part of broader coalition-building efforts.
According to the source, factions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are increasingly aligning with the emerging coalition movement, including groups associated with former Minister Tanimu Turaki.
He added that discussions within the coalition are not currently centred on zoning arrangements, insisting that all regions remain constitutionally eligible to produce a presidential candidate.
Coalition convener confirms Jonathan will be on ballot
Meanwhile, the Convener of the Coalition for Jonathan and ADC member, Tom Ohikere, said during an interview with ARISE NEWS that Jonathan would eventually appear on the 2027 presidential ballot if ongoing consultations progress successfully.
Ohikere clarified comments previously made by Jonathan, in which the former president reportedly stated that seeking the presidency was “not a computer game.”
According to him, the remark was intended to highlight the complexity and seriousness of contesting for Nigeria’s highest office.
“A lot is involved. It’s a huge process, a very comprehensive process,” Ohikere said.
He, however, acknowledged that Jonathan had not yet formally accepted the coalition’s proposal.
“He never accepted. But in the fullness of time, shortly, give him the next one or two days, he will make his pronouncement,” he stated.
Legal questions over eligibility
Despite the growing political momentum, Jonathan’s possible return remains clouded by legal uncertainty.
A suit before the Federal High Court is challenging whether another presidential bid by Jonathan would violate constitutional term-limit provisions under the 1999 Constitution, considering he served as president between 2010 and 2015.
Jonathan assumed office following the death of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2010 before winning a full term in 2011.
He later lost the 2015 presidential election to former President Muhammadu Buhari and was widely praised internationally for conceding defeat before the final results were officially announced.
ADC emerges as possible platform
Reports indicate that the ADC is positioning itself as the likely platform for Jonathan’s potential candidacy, as opposition leaders continue consultations aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s political equation ahead of 2027.
Political analysts believe Jonathan’s entry could significantly alter the dynamics of the presidential contest, particularly if opposition parties succeed in uniting behind a single candidate.
