By Sandra Ugwu

Fresh indications that former President Goodluck Jonathan may contest the 2027 presidential election have stirred widespread political debate and renewed calculations across the country’s major political blocs.

Reports suggest Jonathan is considering a return to office on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party after consultations within his political circle over the most favourable route back to power amid worsening economic challenges and public dissatisfaction.

The development has reportedly sparked intense competition among several support groups seeking to purchase the PDP’s N100 million nomination form on his behalf before the submission deadline.

Groups said to be backing the former president include the Coalition for Jonathan, Goodies Movement, The New Nigeria movement, Northern Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan, Arewa for Better Government, and several youth organisations across northern Nigeria.

Sources close to Jonathan claimed the former president believes he can provide the leadership needed to address economic hardship and restore confidence in governance. Though he had initially maintained that consultations were ongoing, insiders now say he has made up his mind to enter the race.

The PDP also strengthened speculation surrounding the move after party spokesman Ini Ememobong confirmed that Jonathan had completed his registration with the party earlier this year.

The possible comeback has drawn mixed reactions from political stakeholders nationwide.

The Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, described Jonathan’s reported ambition as a major factor that could alter the country’s political dynamics ahead of 2027. Afenifere leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, said the former president must have carefully assessed the political terrain before deciding to contest.

However, the Middle Belt Forum advised Jonathan against returning to active politics, warning that the current political atmosphere could damage the respected image he has built locally and internationally since leaving office.

Founder of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Chief Chekwas Okorie, also urged Jonathan to reconsider, arguing that returning to partisan politics after over a decade could undermine his statesman status.

The Christian Association of Nigeria expressed fears that Jonathan’s entry into the race could further fragment opposition votes and complicate efforts to challenge the ruling party in 2027.

Meanwhile, the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum maintained that power should remain in the South in 2027, insisting Jonathan has every constitutional right to seek office.

Former presidential adviser Akin Osuntokun said Jonathan has long enjoyed goodwill among northern political interests but questioned whether the PDP had resolved its internal disputes well enough to support a serious presidential bid.

Within the PDP, some party leaders also expressed reservations. National Treasurer of the Wike-led faction, Diran Odeyemi, warned Jonathan against allowing himself to be drawn into political schemes that could damage his reputation.

The Northern Elders Forum, however, distanced itself from endorsing any aspirant, including Jonathan, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi.

As political consultations intensify ahead of 2027, Jonathan’s reported return is already reshaping discussions around zoning, opposition alliances, and the battle for Nigeria’s presidency.