2027 : PDP pushes for Jonathan’s candidacy as APC vows to floor him again 

In an interview, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi expressed disappointment at the idea of Jonathan running with another political party.

He emphasized that the former president remains a key figure in the party’s history and urged him to return and continue his political journey with the PDP.

“We’ve said this about Jonathan and our governors. Even the FCT minister is arguably the best performer in his role, and he is a product of PDP. El-Rufai, Okonjo-Iweala, Dora Akunyili, Obi Ezekwesili, Akinwunmi Adesina, Amina Mohammed… these are the pride of this country, and they are all products of the PDP,” Abdullahi said.

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Abdullahi also cautioned Jonathan against aligning with those who once heavily criticized him but now praise him, describing such actions as hypocritical. “It’s crucial for him to remember how he was derided, criticised, and reduced to nothing by these same people. Now that they are suddenly calling him the messiah, he must not be swayed by their sudden affection. That would be unfortunate,” he added.

The call comes amid speculations about Jonathan’s potential return to the political arena, fueled by the appearance of campaign posters bearing his image in major streets across Kano. The posters, carrying messages such as “Team New Nigeria 2027; The Goodluck Nigeria Needs,” were reportedly distributed by a political movement called “Team New Nigeria.”

The development mirrors events before the 2023 elections, when Jonathan’s name was linked to a nomination under the All Progressives Congress (APC)—a move he later disassociated himself from.

Meanwhile, discussions within the PDP suggest that its upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, scheduled for February 2025, could be pivotal for the party’s future.

A member of the NEC, speaking anonymously, highlighted the significance of the meeting, noting, “The proposed February NEC meeting will decide the party’s future, whether it happens or not.”

The PDP has faced internal challenges, including criticism of acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and calls for his resignation. At its 98th NEC meeting earlier this year, the party resolved to form a reconciliation and disciplinary committee and hold ward and state congresses.

As the NEC meeting approaches, former Deputy National Publicity Secretary Diran Odeyemi suggested that delays in convening it may stem from political maneuvering within the party. “If the ultimate goal is to remove Damagum, he would do everything in his power to prevent the meeting,” he said.

Reacting to the PDP’s invitation to Jonathan, the APC dismissed any concerns about a potential Jonathan candidacy. National Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim stated, “The APC defeated him when he was in power. Defeating him when he’s out of power will be a walkover.”

Ibrahim added that the party remains focused on delivering on its mandate rather than speculating about 2027. “If you bring 10 former President Jonathans, they cannot defeat the APC as of today,” he concluded.

(PUNCH)