Jonathan Reportedly Considering ADC Platform Ahead of 2027 Elections as Coalition Strengthens Nationwide Consultations

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly considering aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, as the party’s coalition of opposition forces intensifies consultations with political stakeholders across Nigeria.

Multiple members of the ADC National Working Committee confirmed to newsmen that Jonathan is weighing the option of contesting under the ADC banner.

In recent weeks, speculation has grown about Jonathan’s possible return to the ballot against President Bola Tinubu. Although he has not made any official announcement, several Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders have urged him to run on their platform, while others have advised him to stay out of the race.

Public opinion remains divided, especially following the 2018 constitutional amendment that bars anyone who has been sworn in twice as president or governor from contesting again.

In what appears to be part of wide-ranging consultations, Jonathan has noticeably increased his public appearances, attending national events and meeting with key figures. He met with Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in Abuja on September 12, and later held discussions with ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark and other coalition leaders on September 25.

A senior ADC official disclosed that the meeting centered on strategies for the 2027 presidential election.

“Dr. Jonathan is a patriotic Nigerian and will be a great asset to the ADC. We have had multiple meetings with him, discussing Nigeria’s leadership future. The ADC remains the most credible alternative platform for Nigerians, and we believe he will be instrumental to that vision,” the source said.

“The ADC remains the only trustworthy platform. Other opposition parties are divided and losing members. Nigerians, especially the youth, want change, and ADC provides that alternative,” Rufai said.

“Our party defeated him when the PDP was at its strongest. How will he win now under a party with no structure? The APC will defeat him again, regardless of his platform,” Ibrahim told newsmen.

ADC National Treasurer Mani Ibrahim confirmed that consultations are ongoing nationwide ahead of 2027.

Another source within the party revealed that Jonathan may accept the ADC platform if the party offers him the presidential ticket unopposed by Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.

“He has met with our leaders to discuss leadership challenges, economic decline, and insecurity. The ADC is the only viable opposition party not influenced by the APC. If given the ticket, Jonathan may run on our platform,” the source added.

ADC Youth Leader Balarabe Rufai said Jonathan’s meeting with the chairman focused on Nigeria’s future and the need for a credible alternative.

“We have met with many eminent Nigerians and will continue our strategic roadmap. People are disillusioned with the current administration’s failures in the economy and security, and we’re building momentum for a credible alternative,” he said.

Meanwhile, APC Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim dismissed Jonathan’s potential move as futile.

Efforts to reach ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, Atiku’s Media Aide Paul Ibe and Obidients Movement Coordinator Yunusa Tanko were unsuccessful as of press time.