“Bring Back Jonathan”— Northern Governor, Stakeholders Push for Jonathan’s Candidacy

Influential northern leaders have initiated efforts to convince former President Goodluck Jonathan to enter the 2027 presidential race, presenting a significant challenge to Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid as dissatisfaction with his leadership continues to grow.

According to sources, a governor from the North East and a retired general from the North West are leading this campaign.

Their argument hinges on the 1999 Constitution, which permits a maximum of two four-year terms for presidents, making Jonathan an appealing candidate since he is eligible for only one more term, having previously served as president.

In August, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed publicly declared his support for Jonathan, even stating that he would abandon his own presidential ambitions and fully back Jonathan “with his blood” if he chooses to run.

He had said, “With regard to your call for me to present myself, I am still contemplating my chances as the leader of the opposition.

“I know there are good leaders within the PDP, especially my boss Goodluck Jonathan.

“I have always said that as long as Jonathan is around, I will not present myself for leadership of this country unless he decides not to run.

If we can persuade him to come forward, I will support him with my blood. Out of modesty, he is still not ready. I hope you will meet him and encourage him to run.

“He will do a better job because he has the experience. We know the prices of things; we know the level of inflation.

“During Jonathan’s regime, he was inclusive, addressing issues like the Almajiri system and creating initiatives for unemployed youths.

“His leadership recruitment was exemplary. We need leaders like him—young people with energy, foresight, and drive,” he said.