(SEE MAP): 20 States Jonathan May Likely Win Against Tinubu if Cleared

Fresh political signals emerging from within the opposition camp suggest former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan may still be considering a dramatic return to frontline politics ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Despite earlier indications that Jonathan had stepped away from active electoral contests, renewed consultations among key stakeholders within the Peoples Democratic Party have fuelled speculation that the former president could become a consensus candidate against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to reports, loyalists linked to Jonathan have already obtained Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms through the Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the PDP following recent legal developments within the party.

Political analysts believe Jonathan’s possible return could significantly alter the political equation ahead of 2027, especially in the South-South, South-East and parts of the North where he still enjoys considerable goodwill.

Observers also argue that Jonathan may attract support from opposition blocs seeking a familiar national figure capable of rallying multiple regions against the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Analysts say the former president could perform strongly in the following states if he eventually enters the race:

Bayelsa
Rivers
Delta
Akwa Ibom
Cross River
Edo
Enugu
Anambra
Abia
Ebonyi
Imo
Benue
Plateau
Taraba
Adamawa
Bauchi
Kaduna
Osun
Oyo
Nasarawa

Why Jonathan Could Be a Strong Threat

Political watchers believe Jonathan’s calm public image, past presidential experience and longstanding relationships across regions may make him attractive to undecided voters and opposition coalitions.

His possible candidacy could also unite sections of the PDP, Labour Party supporters and smaller opposition blocs searching for a single candidate capable of confronting Tinubu and the APC’s nationwide political machinery.

However, analysts say much will depend on court decisions, PDP internal stability and whether opposition leaders are willing to close ranks behind one candidate before the 2027 campaign season fully begins.