Former President Goodluck Jonathan is set to contest the 2027 presidential election, according to Fred Agbedi, a member of the House of Representatives, who made the announcement during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday. Agbedi confirmed that Jonathan will run under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasizing that the former president’s candidacy is being actively supported by the party. He also raised concerns about the involvement of the PDAPC — a group not recognized by law — in election-related activities, suggesting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is allowing its members, including certain professors and officials, to serve as observers despite court rulings against their legitimacy.
Agbedi pointed out that both the Appeal Court and the Supreme Court have previously ruled that the PDAPC lacks legal recognition, yet INEC continues to engage its members. He noted that the PDP has formally reminded INEC of these court decisions, but the electoral body has not taken action to exclude the PDAPC from its processes. This development adds a layer of complexity to the electoral landscape ahead of the 2027 polls, as legal and procedural challenges continue to emerge.
The announcement comes after a Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that Jonathan is eligible to run for president in 2027. The court’s decision, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu on Tuesday, dismissed a lawsuit filed by Johnmary Jideobi, who had sought to bar Jonathan from becoming a candidate for any political party in the upcoming election. The ruling clears a major legal hurdle for Jonathan’s political comeback.
Earlier, the PDP faction led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki granted Jonathan a waiver to contest the presidency, signaling internal party support for his candidacy. This waiver is significant, as it allows Jonathan to bypass certain party eligibility rules that might otherwise restrict his participation. The move has sparked reactions across Nigeria’s political spectrum, with supporters viewing it as a sign of renewed hope for the PDP, while critics question the implications for party unity and electoral fairness.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, Jonathan’s potential return to the presidential race marks a pivotal moment in the country’s political calendar. His candidacy could reshape the dynamics of the election, drawing attention from voters, party stakeholders, and legal observers alike. The next steps will depend on how INEC manages party affiliations, legal challenges, and electoral logistics in the months ahead.
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