2027 presidency: PDP rejects Atiku; Jonathan returns against Tinubu

The permutation to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election is gaining traction, with key figures from the People Democratic Party showing support for the return of former President Goodluck Jonathan as their potential presidential candidate,  as an alternative to Atiku Abubakar, previously defeated by Tinubu in 2023.

According to sources within the People’s Democratic Party, there are ongoing discussions to encourage Goodluck Jonathan to run against Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election. This move is seen as a rejection of Atiku Abubakar, as some believe Jonathan may be the most viable candidate to challenge the president, given the current hardships in the country.

“Some PDP members are already projecting Jonathan but nobody knows if he’s going to accept the offer, and some of his boys are already in the current government which many think could be a difficult decision for him, and with the current situation of damages in the country, he’s been careful to accept the move,” a top PDP executive disclosed to ThePAPERS from Abuja.

Meanwhile, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed says he is contemplating a presidential bid but will drop his ambition if former President Goodluck Jonathan decides to contest.

Mohammed made this statement on Thursday after a Non-Governmental organisation, NGO, asked him to consider running for the presidency.

According to the governor, Jonathan has experience and would do a good job if he gets the mandate to manage the country.

“With regard to your call for me to present myself, I am still contemplating my chances as the leader of the opposition.

“I know there are good leaders within the PDP, especially my boss Goodluck Jonathan.

“I have always said that as long as Jonathan is around, I will not present myself for leadership of this country, unless he decides not to run.

“If we can persuade him to come forward, I will support him with my blood. Out of modesty, he is still not ready. I hope you will meet him and encourage him to run.

“He will do a better job because he has the experience. We know the prices of things; we know the level of inflation.

“During Jonathan’s regime, he was inclusive, addressing issues like the Almajiri system and creating initiatives for unemployed youths.

“His leadership recruitment was exemplary. We need leaders like him—young people with energy, foresight, and drive,” he said.

Mohammed further stated that his criticisms of the administration of President Bola Tinubu are part of his responsibility to help put the country on the right path.