By Queen Madaki
ABUJA, Nigeria — Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly making quiet political moves ahead of the 2027 general elections, according to a claim by a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Sani.
Sani, a former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to ex-Vice President Namadi Sambo, alleged during an appearance on Trust TV that Jonathan has already purchased a presidential nomination form ahead of the 2027 race.
Claim Over Nomination Form Sparks Political Debate
According to Sani, the former president has completed key preliminary steps that indicate a serious interest in returning to active partisan politics nearly 12 years after leaving office.
He further argued that ongoing legal challenges questioning Jonathan’s eligibility to contest again would fail in court, insisting that the matter had already been settled judicially.
“We are very confident that the matter will be thrown out because you cannot relitigate something that has already been decided upon,” Sani said.
Legal Challenge Expected to Be Dismissed
Sani noted that only the Supreme Court could overturn previous rulings on Jonathan’s eligibility, adding that the case before Justice Peter Lifu would likely be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction when it comes up on May 26.
The legal dispute has continued to generate debate among political actors and constitutional analysts as Nigeria edges closer to another election cycle.
Renewed Political Activity Around Jonathan
Although Jonathan has not publicly declared his intention to contest, his recent consultations across political circles have intensified speculation about a possible comeback.
Observers say these engagements suggest renewed political calculations within Nigeria’s opposition landscape, particularly within the PDP.
PDP Internal Dynamics and Political Calculations
Sani also suggested that internal challenges within the PDP may be influencing Jonathan’s cautious approach to declaring his ambition publicly.
However, he insisted that the former president’s actions already point toward serious political intent.
“In politics, what is important is action. If you are interested, there are processes you must follow, one of which is procurement of nomination forms. He has done that,” he said.
Pressed further, Sani reiterated his claim that Jonathan had already obtained the form and was preparing to submit it publicly.
Public Sentiment and Political Nostalgia
The PDP chieftain also argued that Jonathan continues to enjoy strong emotional support among Nigerians, driven by nostalgia over his time in office.
He said many citizens now compare past and present administrations, with some expressing renewed interest in the former president’s leadership style.
Jonathan’s Political Background
Goodluck Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015 before losing re-election to former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Since leaving office, he has largely maintained a low profile in domestic partisan politics, focusing instead on diplomatic and mediation roles across Africa.
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