Connect with us

Politics

Jonathan’s 2027 Ambition Splits South-South PDP as Party Leaders Weigh In

Published

on

Jonathan’s 2027 Ambition Splits South-South PDP as Party Leaders Weigh In

Jonathan’s 2027 Ambition Splits South-South PDP as Party Leaders Weigh In

Abuja, Nigeria – Speculation over the reported 2027 presidential ambition of former President Goodluck Jonathan has triggered fresh divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South, with party leaders and stakeholders split over whether the former leader should return to the ballot.

While some argue Jonathan should not contest against incumbent President Bola Tinubu, several political pressure groups and PDP factions have rallied behind him, describing his possible comeback as a “breath of fresh air.”

Sources close to the former president confirmed he is still consulting widely before deciding whether to contest. He has reportedly received overtures not only from the PDP, but also from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) urging him to run in 2027.

South-South PDP Divided

In Bayelsa State, Jonathan’s home base, all eyes are on Governor Douye Diri, whose stance will likely shape the chapter’s position. The uncertainty has also deepened rivalries in Rivers State, where loyalists of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara have taken opposite positions—Wike’s camp rejecting Jonathan’s return, while Fubara’s allies welcome it.

In contrast, the Edo State PDP has openly endorsed the idea. Party Publicity Secretary Chris Nehikhare described Jonathan as “one of the most qualified leaders in Nigeria’s history,” adding that his possible return would be “a refreshing development and a privilege for the party to champion.”

Similarly, Delta State leaders have pledged support, while the Akwa Ibom chapter says it is awaiting Jonathan’s formal declaration before stating its position.

National Push for Jonathan

Beyond the South-South, efforts to draw Jonathan back into the PDP are gathering momentum. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, recently met with Jonathan in Bayelsa to discuss his potential candidacy.

Prominent party elders—including former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and former Minister of Information Jerry Gana—have also publicly urged him to return and contest under the PDP platform.

Constitutional Debate

The possibility of Jonathan’s candidacy has reignited debate about his eligibility. A 2018 constitutional amendment bars anyone sworn in twice as president or governor from seeking re-election. Sections 137(3) and 182(3) specify that a person who completed another’s term may only seek one additional full term.

Critics argue this disqualifies Jonathan, who first assumed office in 2010 after the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua before winning his own mandate in 2011. However, Jonathan’s camp insists he is eligible, citing a 2022 Federal High Court judgment in Yenagoa that affirmed his right to run again.

Rivers PDP at Crossroads

In Rivers, divisions are sharpest. PDP spokesman Kenneth Yorwika, a Wike loyalist, dismissed Jonathan’s relevance, noting his long absence from party affairs and arguing that Tinubu is already “making determined efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians.”

By contrast, allies of Fubara see Jonathan as a unifying figure. Former federal lawmaker Ogbonna Nwuke praised the ex-president’s peaceful disposition and performance in office, saying many Nigerians believe he has the qualities to restore stability and provide the leadership the country now needs.

Waiting Game in Bayelsa

For now, the Bayelsa PDP remains officially neutral. Acting caretaker chairman George Turnah stressed that only Governor Diri, as state leader of the party, can speak authoritatively.

“The story of President Jonathan’s ambition remains in the realm of speculation. Until he formally declares, it is premature for us to take a position,” Turnah said.

The Road Ahead

As consultations continue, Jonathan’s name looms large over the PDP’s internal calculations. Supporters hail him as a stabilizing figure whose tenure is still remembered for national cohesion and peaceful leadership, while critics question his relevance and eligibility.

What remains clear is that the former president’s next move—whether to declare or step aside—could reshape not only the PDP’s 2027 strategy but also the trajectory of Nigeria’s wider political landscape.

Politics

APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition

Published

on

*APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition*

 

The APC National Vanguard has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support a second term in office for Siminalayi Fubara, citing what it described as “impressive and verifiable developmental strides” across Rivers State.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National President, Dr Gbenga Salam (JP), the group said its position followed an extensive assessment tour of key infrastructure and public service projects executed under the Fubara administration.

The APC National Vanguard said the appeal was based strictly on performance, arguing that governance outcomes should outweigh partisan considerations, particularly in a state as economically significant as Rivers.

“We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress to support the continuity of Governor Siminalayi Fubara beyond his current tenure, in recognition of his commitment to development, prudent resource management, and people-focused governance,” the statement read.

According to the group, its delegation visited multiple project sites across the state, observing ongoing and completed works spanning road construction, urban renewal, and public infrastructure upgrades.

It noted that the scale and distribution of these projects reflect a deliberate effort by the state government to extend development beyond traditional urban centres and into underserved communities.

“Our findings from the tour reveal a government that is not only active but intentional in its development agenda. The execution of capital projects across various parts of Rivers State demonstrates a clear understanding of the needs of the people and a commitment to addressing them,” Dr Salam said.

The group particularly commended what it described as prudent financial management by the administration, noting that the projects reviewed showed evidence of careful planning and efficient allocation of resources.

“At a time when economic pressures are evident across the country, it is commendable that the Rivers State government has managed its resources in a way that delivers visible and impactful development without signs of fiscal recklessness,” the statement added.

The APC National Vanguard further observed that despite political tensions in the state, the Fubara administration has maintained focus on governance, ensuring continuity in project execution and service delivery.

The group argued that such stability is critical for sustained development and should be encouraged rather than disrupted.

“Leadership must ultimately be judged by results. In Rivers State, there is clear evidence of progress—projects that are not only announced but executed, and policies that translate into real benefits for citizens,” Dr Salam noted.

The group warned that discontinuity in leadership could stall ongoing projects and reverse gains already recorded, stressing the importance of allowing a performing administration to consolidate its achievements.

“Rivers State is at a pivotal stage where continuity will allow for the completion of ongoing initiatives and the deepening of development gains. Supporting Governor Fubara for a second term is, therefore, a decision in the best interest of the people,” the statement said.

In addition to its call on the APC leadership, the group reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, expressing confidence in his administration’s broader economic and governance reforms.

The APC group urged Nigerians to remain supportive of efforts aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening public institutions.

“We reiterate our endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to national development. With sustained support, the administration can consolidate its reform agenda for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Dr Salam added.

The APC National Vanguard concluded by calling on political actors to prioritise development and public interest over partisan divides, insisting that governance should always be guided by performance and accountability.

“Where leadership demonstrates prudence, delivers development, and remains focused on the welfare of the people, it deserves continuity. This is the position we have reached after a careful and independent assessment of Rivers State,” the statement added.

Continue Reading

Politics

Renewed Hope Ambassadors Shift to Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

Published

on

Renewed Hope Ambassadors Shift to Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

*Renewed Hope Ambassadors Step Into the Next Phase

 

Fresh from the successful APC 2026 National Convention, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors National, Zonal, and State leadership gathered in Abuja over the weekend, for its fourth strategic meeting, setting the tone for nationwide grassroots activation ahead of 2027.

Chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma (Imo State) the Director General and National Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, alongside Deputy Director-General, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State as Secretary, the session reinforced one clear direction: One Party. One Message. One Mobilization whilst also laying out a strategic roadmap for the activation of the network across all communities in Nigeria.

Backed by the strength of 31 APC-led states, the Renewed Hope Agenda is taking Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of progress and reform to every corner of Nigeria.

From bold economic restructuring to initiatives like NELFUND, the increase in the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, and strategic investments in critical sectors, including PNiCGI, the mission remains clear: helping Nigerians understand both the purpose and the progress of the Renewed Hope vision.

This is coordination at scale. This is grassroots engagement with purpose. This is the next phase of Renewed Hope with One Party, One Message, and One Mobilisation framework

#RenewedHopeAmbassadors #APC #WeAreAPC

 

Renewed Hope Ambassadors Shift to Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

Continue Reading

Politics

Governor Bago Inaugurates APC Digital Media Sub-Committee Ahead of National Convention

Published

on

Governor Bago Inaugurates APC Digital Media Sub-Committee Ahead of National Convention.

 

Governor Umaru Bago has inaugurated the Digital Media Sub-Committee for the forthcoming National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), scheduled to hold on March 27 and 28, 2026 in Abuja.

 

Chairing the sub-committee, Governor Bago tasked members with the responsibility of effectively communicating the party’s manifesto to the public.

 

He emphasized the need to leverage social media platforms to highlight the achievements and ongoing efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that communication gaps have posed challenges that must now be decisively addressed.

 

The Co-Chair of the sub-committee, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, echoed the Governor’s position, urging members to project the activities of both the party and the government to a broader audience.

 

He called for a deliberate and coordinated effort to showcase the party’s achievements and policy direction, stressing the importance of shaping a compelling and consistent narrative across all digital platforms.

 

Delivering a presentation to the committee, Otega Ogra, SSA to the President on New Media, who serves as Secretary of the sub-committee, outlined strategic focus areas to guide the team’s operations.

 

His presentation highlighted communication priorities and actionable steps to achieve the committee’s mandate and strengthen the party’s digital engagement.

 

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending