BREAKING: Jonathan may settle for ADC as INEC recognises coalition party

Several positive developments have emerged for former President Goodluck Jonathan following an official announcement from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

As the ADC gains official status, it may become a crucial player in future elections, possibly influencing Jonathan’s political aspirations and strategies moving forward. Click link to continue reading.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised the new leadership of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), with former Senate President, Senator David Bonaventure Mark, emerging as National Chairman.

INEC confirmed the change in the party’s particulars on its official website on Wednesday in Abuja, effectively ending months of leadership tussle within the ADC.

According to the commission, the newly approved National Working Committee will be headed by Senator Mark as National Chairman, while former Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has been listed as the National Secretary.

Other members include Dr Mani Ibrahim Ahmad as National Treasurer; Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary; and former Edo State governor, Prof. Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor, as National Legal Adviser.

The development is expected to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders expressing optimism about its renewed direction.

Meanwhile, according to The Punch, the ruling APC has already endorsed Tinubu for a second term, banking on incumbency and its control of 23 governors, 70 senators, and 220 House members.

The opposition remains divided. The ADC is pushing to unite discontented members of the PDP, Labour Party, and NNPP, while the PDP itself is weakened by internal crises.

Among possible challengers, Atiku Abubakar stands out. The Adamawa politician, who has contested six times since 1993, polled nearly seven million votes and won 12 states in 2023. His strong northern base, finances, and national profile remain key strengths.

But he faces hurdles: voter fatigue, age, he will be 81 in 2027, and criticism of refusing to step aside. Analysts say his chances depend on picking a youthful southern running mate and forging alliances with Obi or Kwankwaso. Without that, the opposition risks splitting and giving Tinubu an easy win.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is also being courted as a consensus southern candidate. Both PDP and ADC are said to be working to put him on the ballot.

Analysts see him as a strong option because he would serve only one term, likely attracting northern backing. Supporters add that his statesmanlike image, global reputation, and ability to ease southern divisions make him a credible challenger to Tinubu.

A chieftain of the ADC, and Jonathan’s supporter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity said, “He’s the best of all the opposition leaders today.

“He’s experienced and has demonstrated commitment to the unity and peace of the country by conceding defeat to Buhari in 2015.

“Of other aspirants, Jonathan has only a term to serve.

“That’s a sure bargain for the North.

“If he agrees to contest, we can persuade Atiku to nominate a vice presidential candidate. With that, victory is sure for the ADC.”

Jonathan’s possible comeback, however, faces uncertainty due to constitutional questions about his eligibility. Since he completed Umaru Yar’Adua’s tenure before winning in 2011, legal experts are split on whether he can legally run for president again.

Nwauju further warned that the experiences of previous leaders who relied on similar transactional systems show that such loyalties are inherently temporary.

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