In a twist of fate, or what political analysts call a ‘political’ grand plan, is rearing its head. News has it that former president Goodluck Jonathan has indicated interest in running in the 2027 election. Furthermore, it was learnt that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has given him all the soft landing through many assurances.
PDP Sets Screening Date for 2027 Elections
Former President Goodluck Jonathan will undergo screening by the Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Furthermore, the party plans this screening as part of preparations for the 2027 general elections. The exercise will take place on Tuesday nationwide.
Thousands of Aspirants to Participate
The faction announced in a Sunday statement that all candidates for elective positions must undergo screening starting at 10 a.m. For this reason, the party expects thousands of aspirants, including the following: – 2,122 for state houses of assembly – 748 for the House of Representatives – 198 for the Senate – 112 for governorships – 1 presidential aspirant.
Jonathan Confirmed as Sole Presidential Aspirant
Although the statement did not name the presidential candidate, party sources confirmed Jonathan as the only aspirant cleared for the presidency. Nevertheless, this development has intensified political discussions within the opposition.
Prominent PDP Figures Form Screening Committee
The 14-member presidential screening committee includes notable PDP leaders and elder statesmen. Key members comprise former Vice President Namadi Sambo, former Plateau Governor Jonah Jang, and former Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Ikimi. Other committee members are Olabode George, Babangida Aliyu, Maryam Ciroma, Zainab Maina, Josephine Anenih, Abdul Bulama, Esther Uduehi, Tony Aziegbemi, Sunday Solari, and Anicho Okoro as administrative secretary. Afterwards, the party confirmed the committee’s approval in a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
Party Statement on Screening Process
“This publication is in accordance with the party’s guidelines and timetable for the conduct of the 2027 general election,” the faction’s statement noted. However, some analysts believe his entry will be a disruption to the political calculations of the ruling and opposition parties.
Jonathan’s Political Influence Remains Strong
Jonathan led Nigeria as president from 2010 to 2015. Since leaving office, he remains a major political figure in the PDP and across Africa. However, there have been different court cases on his eligibility.
Potential Return Sparks Political Debates
His possible return to frontline presidential politics will likely spark debates within ruling and opposition camps. In addition, there will be different political alignments ahead of 2027 which will continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape.
APC’s Reaction
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is yet to officially react to the speculated reports of the former president’s interest in the 2027 race. However, in time past, the APC has consistently expressed scepticism regarding former President Goodluck Jonathan’s potential candidacy in the 2027 presidential race. In August 2025, the Lagos State chapter of the APC stated that Jonathan lacked the political relevance to unseat President Bola Tinubu, emphasising that Nigeria had moved beyond “the politics of sentiment, nostalgia, and symbolism”.
Conclusion
As former President Goodluck Jonathan prepares to formally enter the 2027 presidential race, his challenge to the incumbent President Tinubu promises to reshape Nigeria’s political dynamics. With his extensive political experience and continued influence within the PDP, Jonathan aims to present formidable opposition. Consequently, the upcoming elections are poised to become a critical battleground, reflecting the evolving aspirations of Nigerian voters and the broader struggle for leadership and national progress.
