Speculation about former President Goodluck Jonathan's potential candidacy in the 2027 presidential election has been gaining momentum.
In the lead-up to recent elections from available reports, campaign posters featuring former President Goodluck Jonathan have flooded Kano and Abuja.
Recent developments, including a discreet meeting with Peter Obi, have fueled discussions about his possible emergence as a contender against President Bola Tinubu.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has clarified that Goodluck Jonathan is eligible to run for the presidency in 2027 under the party's banner.
However, the party's spokesperson, Ibrahim Abdullahi, emphasized that there's no special invitation for Jonathan and that the party has several competent candidates vying for the position.
Despite the PDP's stance, there's growing support for Jonathan's potential candidacy, particularly from northern groups
Some believe his leadership style and experience could help address Nigeria's economic and security challenges. Former presidential aspirant Mathias Tsado has been vocal about urging Jonathan to run, citing his ability to bring stability and redirect the economy.
On constitutional concerns, however, Jonathan's potential candidacy faces constitutional concerns. Some argue that having served two terms as president, Jonathan may be ineligible to contest again.
Professor Chidi Odinkalu, a human rights lawyer, has warned that any attempt by Jonathan to contest in 2027 would face inevitable judicial scrutiny.
On the side of APC's the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the party has warned against Jonathan's potential candidacy, citing potential constitutional crisis and political instability.
The party's spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, emphasized that Nigeria needs fresh leadership that reflects the aspirations of its youthful population.
Considering Ngeria's current economic challenges and the nostagia it has created, Supporters point to relatively stable fuel prices and youth empowerment programs during his tenure. However, critics argue that nostalgia is not a policy platform and that emotional shortcuts won't fix the country's problems.
Interestingly, Jonathan's potential candidacy has gained significant support from northern Nigeria, a region that previously opposed him. Some northern leaders believe Jonathan's leadership style and experience could help address the country's challenges.
The legal implications of Jonathan's potential candidacy are complex. While some argue that he's constitutionally eligible, others believe that his candidacy would face significant legal challenges.
The PDP's internal dynamics could also impact Jonathan's potential candidacy. Some party members, like Minister Nyesom Wike, have expressed opposition to Jonathan's return, citing potential problems for the party.
As it stands now,Jonathan's potential 2027 presidential bid has continued to spark a national conversation about leadership, democracy, and Nigeria's future. While there's growing support for his candidacy, constitutional concerns and party dynamics could impact his chances. As the country approaches the 2027 election, the debate around Jonathan's potential candidacy will likely continue.
If Jonathan decides to run, his candidacy could significantly impact the 2027 election landscape.The PDP's decision on Jonathan's candidacy could influence the party's chances in the election.
Legal pundits and analysts are of the view that the constitutional concerns surrounding Jonathan's potential candidacy could lead to a constitutional crisis.
The coming months will reveal whether Jonathan will heed the call to run for president in 2027. As the conversation around his potential candidacy continues, one thing is certain: the outcome will have significant implications for Nigeria's future