Jonathan Considers ADC As 2027 Race Gathers Momentum

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly in talks with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as he weighs a possible return to the presidential race ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The move comes amid growing political consultations and the formation of a coalition of opposition forces under the ADC.

Sources within the ADC’s National Working Committee confirmed that discussions between Jonathan and party leaders have intensified in recent weeks. The former president has yet to make his intentions public, but his increasing political engagements and meetings with key figures have fueled speculation of a comeback bid.

Jonathan’s renewed visibility on the national scene has not gone unnoticed. In September, he met with Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Abuja and later held private talks with ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark and other leaders of the party. According to insiders, the meetings focused on the 2027 elections and possible alignments to build a broad-based opposition.

Party sources revealed that the ADC sees Jonathan as a valuable political asset whose credibility and national appeal could strengthen the coalition’s chances. They hinted that discussions may include offering him the presidential ticket, provided that major opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi agree to a consensus arrangement.

According to one of the party leaders, the talks have also touched on the state of governance under the current administration and the need for a stronger opposition platform. He said the ADC remains the only credible alternative outside the grip of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that the former president’s possible entry would boost national confidence in the party.

ADC Youth Leader Balarabe Rufai described Jonathan as a respected statesman whose leadership could unite reform-minded Nigerians. He said the ADC was positioning itself as the only reliable platform for citizens seeking a new political direction, noting that other opposition parties are weakened by internal divisions.

The ADC’s National Treasurer, Mani Ibrahim, confirmed that the party is deepening consultations nationwide. He said the party has held several meetings with key political stakeholders and is working to expand its grassroots structure ahead of the next election. Ibrahim added that public dissatisfaction with the current administration has strengthened the party’s momentum, especially among young voters.

Meanwhile, the ruling APC dismissed reports of Jonathan’s possible defection as inconsequential. The party’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said the APC remains confident of victory in 2027, insisting that Jonathan stands no chance if he decides to contest under any party.

Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, has yet to confirm whether he will run again. His possible return to the ballot, however, continues to stir debate about his eligibility under the constitutional provision that bars anyone sworn in twice from contesting the presidency.

As consultations deepen, all eyes are on the former president to see whether he will stage a political comeback or maintain his role as an elder statesman in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.