A former minister and senior figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has revealed that ex-President Goodluck Jonathan intends to run for the presidency again in the 2027 elections under the PDP banner.
Speaking to reporters during the PDP Congress in Niger State, Gana expressed confidence that the party is prepared to reinstate Jonathan as Nigeria’s president in the upcoming election cycle.
He downplayed ongoing internal disputes within the party, emphasizing that a consultative meeting held by the PDP’s founding members in Abuja successfully resolved these challenges.
Attempts to reach Jonathan’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Eze, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
Gana’s announcement follows closely on the heels of a recent meeting between Jonathan and Senator David Mark, chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), held in Abuja just two days prior.
Earlier, Sule Lamido, a PDP founding father and former governor of Jigawa State, had publicly endorsed Jonathan as the party’s strongest candidate. Similarly, Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro confirmed that the PDP has actively sought Jonathan’s return to the political forefront.
Insiders within the party disclosed to LEADERSHIP that the decision to zone the party’s presidential ticket to the South is a strategic move aimed at attracting both Jonathan and Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, who also recently held private discussions with Jonathan.
Nevertheless, a faction loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike opposes Jonathan’s comeback, having pledged support for President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
This group within the PDP has since endorsed Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 presidential race.
Addressing journalists at the Niger State congress, Gana recalled, “In 2015, Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan stated that his ambition was not worth the blood of Nigerians.”
He continued, “Since then, Nigeria has been led by another president for eight years, followed by the current administration for two years. The Nigerian people have witnessed the differences, and these differences are clear. They are now calling for the return of our friend, Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.”
“I can confirm that Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will be the PDP’s presidential candidate in 2027, and Nigerians will vote to bring him back to office,” Gana affirmed.
When asked if the party’s internal divisions might affect its prospects in 2027, Gana responded, “The PDP holds a significant advantage because it remains a truly grassroots party. The founding fathers convened a consultative conference in Abuja that addressed all outstanding issues.”
He further asserted that Nigerians have a strong affinity for the PDP due to its focus on people-centered policies.
“This is why the party remains deeply remembered and why citizens are urging us to make a comeback,” he added.
On the current economic situation, Gana remarked, “The present administration is hindered by numerous obstructive gatekeepers who deter foreign investment. This is a major challenge. Nigeria remains one of the best places to grow your wealth.”
