PDP Move to Draft Jonathan into 2027 Race Sparks Legal and Political Debate

The Peoples Democratic Party is exploring the possibility of bringing former President Goodluck Jonathan back into the 2027 presidential race after zoning its ticket to the South.

This development has revived old political discussions, especially as Jonathan has not publicly rejected the idea this time, unlike in 2019 when he quickly dismissed similar suggestions. Efforts to reach his spokesperson during the week were unsuccessful, but party insiders confirm that consultations are ongoing.

Jonathan’s consideration comes after early talks within the party that also involved 2023 Labour Party candidate Peter Obi. Some PDP members view Jonathan as a stronger choice because the constitution would restrict him to a single term if he wins, allowing power to return to the North sooner. This political calculation appeals to certain northern politicians who believe Obi’s one-term pledge is less convincing.

In the North, however, caution is being advised. Groups like the Arewa Consultative Forum have warned voters against relying on promises of a single-term presidency, describing it as a political tactic rather than a legal requirement. They argue that candidates should be judged on merit and vision, not on regional or ethnic alignments. Political figures outside the PDP have also cast doubt on the practicality of a one-term commitment, noting the strong influence of incumbency in Nigerian politics.

Legal experts say Jonathan’s path to the 2027 ballot may not be straightforward. The 2019 constitutional amendment limits individuals who complete another president’s tenure to only one elected term afterward. Jonathan finished Umaru Yar’Adua’s term from 2010 to 2011 and served his own term from 2011 to 2015. Based on the amendment, some lawyers insist this disqualifies him from running again.

Others argue the law cannot be applied retroactively, since the amendment came after Jonathan left office. They point to previous court rulings that upheld his eligibility to contest the 2023 election as evidence that the legal question is not settled. Several lawyers agree that only a court ruling can give a final answer.

Behind the legal arguments lies a political strategy. Some northern interests reportedly see Jonathan as a compromise candidate who, if elected, would be limited to four more years in office, creating an opening for power to shift again in 2031. Supporters believe this makes him a safer choice for their long-term plans, while critics see it as a calculated move rather than a genuine return to leadership.

For now, Jonathan has neither confirmed nor denied any interest in the race, and his silence is keeping speculation alive. If the PDP moves forward, the decision will almost certainly end up in court, where the interpretation of the constitution will determine whether he can stand as a candidate in 2027.