ADC Moves to Draft Jonathan for 2027 Presidential Race

Fresh political manoeuvring is underway as influential figures within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are reportedly lobbying former President Goodluck Jonathan to lead the party into the 2027 presidential election.

MCC News learnt from multiple sources familiar with the discussions that Jonathan is seriously considering the offer. However, he is said to be torn between loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the platform that propelled him to the presidency, and the opportunity to return to Aso Rock under a new banner.

A close associate of both Jonathan and the ADC confirmed on Friday that conversations have intensified in recent weeks, describing the former president as a “prime target” for the party’s 2027 strategy.

“Jonathan is concerned that certain powerful interests, still holding sway within the PDP and closely linked to the Villa, could undermine him if he seeks the ticket there,” the source revealed.

Party insiders believe a Jonathan candidacy could significantly boost the ADC’s chances in the next general election, offering credibility and national appeal.

However, the former president reportedly harbours reservations about contesting against Labour Party leader Peter Obi, a candidate he considers to have enjoyed remarkable Igbo support during his 2015 campaign.

“His major hesitation with the ADC is running against Obi,” the source explained. 

“Jonathan feels the Igbo people backed him in 2015, perhaps even more than his own Ijaw base, and he does not want to jeopardise that goodwill.”

In a bid to secure Jonathan’s acceptance, the ADC leadership is said to be ready to adjust its internal zoning arrangements to favour a southern candidate.

“If Jonathan agrees to join us, we will formally zone the presidential ticket to the South,” the insider disclosed. 

“But if he declines, we may have no choice but to look North, politics is ultimately a numbers game, and the goal is to win.”

The development underscores the intensifying realignments ahead of 2027, as Nigeria’s major political blocs position themselves for what could become one of the country’s most fiercely contested presidential elections.