Tinubu's 2027 Re-election Bid Faces Setback as Northern Leaders Rally for Jonathan's Candidacy
By Wisdom Tide
October 19, 2024
Northern Leaders Push for Jonathan’s Return
Influential leaders from northern Nigeria have initiated efforts to draft former President Goodluck Jonathan into the 2027 presidential race. This move presents a significant obstacle to President Bola Tinubu’s anticipated re-election campaign, amid growing dissatisfaction with his administration. Sources have disclosed that a sitting governor from the North East, alongside a retired General from the North West, is spearheading this effort.
The proponents of this movement are invoking the 1999 Constitution, which limits a president’s tenure to a maximum of eight years, spread over two four-year terms. Jonathan, having previously served a single term, remains eligible to run for one more term, making him a potential consensus candidate.
Jonathan's Appeal to Northern Stakeholders
Jonathan’s extensive political experience, coupled with his leadership credentials, has made him an attractive option for northern leaders seeking a candidate with cross-regional appeal. His ability to command support in 17 states is seen as a crucial asset for those advocating for his return.
The momentum for Jonathan’s candidacy is further underscored by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s public endorsement in August 2024. Mohammed stated his willingness to set aside his own presidential ambitions to support Jonathan, should he decide to contest.
Bauchi Governor's Support for Jonathan
Governor Bala Mohammed had declared his unwavering support for Jonathan, stating:
“With regard to your call for me to present myself, I am still contemplating my chances as the leader of the opposition. However, as long as Jonathan is available, I will not contest for the leadership of this country unless he chooses not to run."
He continued, "If we can persuade him to come forward, I will support him with my blood. He is the right leader for this time—his experience and leadership qualities make him a better candidate. During his administration, issues like the Almajiri system and unemployment were addressed through inclusive governance and youth initiatives. We need a leader like him, someone with energy, vision, and foresight."
Intensifying Lobby Efforts Across Geopolitical Zones
The campaign to secure Jonathan’s candidacy for 2027 has reportedly gained traction, with intense lobbying targeting key stakeholders across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Civil society organizations, pro-democracy groups, and various pressure bodies are being courted to back the initiative. As reported by Tribune Newspaper, these efforts reflect the increasing consolidation of support for Jonathan’s return to the political arena.
Opposition to Tinubu's Re-election
However, the push for Jonathan’s candidacy is not without competition. A counter-group comprising governors and influential southern politicians is advocating for an alternative southern candidate to succeed President Tinubu. While both factions remain united in their opposition to Tinubu’s re-election, they differ in their preferred candidates for the presidency.
Past Attempts to Draft Jonathan
This is not the first time efforts have been made to bring Jonathan back into the presidential race. Prior to the 2023 elections, there were attempts to enlist him as a candidate for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, Jonathan’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Eze, clarified that the former president did not authorize such moves and was not involved in the decision to purchase nomination forms on his behalf.
In a statement at the time, Eze said:
“While we appreciate the overwhelming request by a cross-section of Nigerians for Dr. Jonathan to make himself available for the 2023 presidential election, we wish to categorically state that he was not aware of this bid and did not authorize it.”
Conclusion
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the potential candidacy of former President Jonathan introduces a new dynamic into the political landscape. With support building across key regions and northern leaders rallying behind him, Jonathan’s return could alter the balance of power and pose a formidable challenge to President Tinubu’s re-election bid. However, competing political interests and factions may yet reshape the contest as both sides maneuver for dominance in the run-up to 2027
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