Former Nigerian President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, is reportedly weighing a political comeback under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Recent developments suggest that Jonathan has become increasingly active in public engagements, fueling speculation that he may contest against President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential election.
Sources familiar with the situation told The Punch that Jonathan has held multiple strategic meetings in the past few weeks, including one with the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Abuja on September 12.
He also met with ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, and other coalition figures on September 25 to discuss Nigeria’s political future.
Although Jonathan has not officially announced his political plans, insiders within the ADC confirmed that talks are ongoing between the former president and the party’s leadership.
An ADC chieftain, who preferred anonymity, disclosed that the discussions were centred around the 2027 general elections and the party’s vision for national leadership.
“Dr Jonathan is a respected statesman and remains a unifying figure in Nigerian politics.
"Our discussions with him have been promising, and we believe the ADC represents a credible alternative for Nigerians seeking real change,” the source said.
The party insider further emphasised that the ADC was positioning itself as a strong national platform capable of offering Nigerians an alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the divided opposition.
“Our door is open to all patriotic leaders who share our vision for a prosperous Nigeria,” the source added.
“We see Jonathan as a bridge-builder who can help redefine governance and rebuild trust among citizens.”
However, another insider revealed that Jonathan’s decision may hinge on whether the ADC agrees to offer him the party’s presidential ticket without internal opposition, a move that could sideline other contenders like Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who are also being courted by the coalition.
According to the source, “There have been conversations about unity and leadership, especially considering how the APC government has weakened key democratic institutions and worsened the economy.
"Jonathan believes Nigeria needs healing and stability, and ADC could provide that platform.
“If the party leadership agrees to back him fully as a consensus candidate, there’s a strong chance he’ll contest. But everyone, including Obi and Atiku, would have to align behind a shared vision for 2027.”
While Jonathan has not made any public declaration, political observers say his renewed activity and meetings with opposition leaders indicate that he may be preparing to return to active politics.
Meanwhile, a political analyst, Dr Seyi Ogunwale, once said on Radio Nigeria that Jonathan’s reemergence could reshape the 2027 race.
“If he joins ADC and gets the backing of other opposition figures, it could create a powerful coalition capable of challenging Tinubu’s incumbency,” he said.
MCC News reports that as Nigerians await Jonathan’s official statement, political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections are already gaining momentum, signalling what could become one of the most competitive presidential races in recent history.
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