'Sani, an Arewa leader, warns against Goodluck Jonathan accepting the PDP's presidential ticket'
Nigeria's Political Landscape: Jonathan's Potential Presidency and Fragmented Opposition
In the run-up to the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, Goodluck Jonathan's potential bid for the People's Democratic Party (PDP) nomination has sparked discussions. Pro-Jonathan groups argue that his legacy of unifying leadership and ethnic-religious inclusiveness positions him as a strong consensus candidate to restore stability and address rising hardship[1][2].
However, Anthony Sani, the former Secretary General of the Arewa Consultative Forum, has expressed doubt about Jonathan's decision to contest in the PDP. Sani maintains that, considering the current state of the country, there is nothing in Jonathan's past performances that suggests he has what it takes to turn the tide around, citing the challenges of insecurity, corruption, and economic instability[3].
The political landscape is further complicated by the fragmented nature of the main opposition. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is contesting in the African Democratic Congress, while Peter Obi is contesting in the Labour Party[4]. The opposition figures may not prevail against incumbent President Bola Tinubu, according to Sani[3].
Calls exist for opposition unity around Jonathan, urging other prominent opposition figures to put aside personal ambitions to support him as a "rescue mission" candidate against the ruling APC government, which they accuse of eroding democracy and worsening national problems[1]. Jonathan's peaceful handover of power in 2015 and his reputation for statesmanship during his presidency contribute to this appeal[2].
However, legal interpretations of one-term limits after completing a predecessor's term could complicate Jonathan's eligibility[4]. The PDP has not officially conducted primaries or designated its candidate, so Jonathan's formal candidacy is not yet confirmed, though close allies suggest he is seriously considering the race and could be a leading contender[5].
Meanwhile, the political arena has been marred by allegations of vote-buying. During the by-election in Adamawa, both the PDP and APC have traded accusations of vote-buying[6]. The PDP has alleged that security operatives have arrested party officials and INEC staff with cash during the by-election[7]. The Onitsha North by-election has seen a low turnout overshadowed by the early arrival of electoral materials[8].
The APC has clarified that a Canadian court did not declare them a terrorist organization[9]. Despite these challenges, the race for the 2027 presidency continues to unfold, with the stakes high for Nigeria's future.
[1] [Source] [2] [Source] [3] [Source] [4] [Source] [5] [Source] [6] [Source] [7] [Source] [8] [Source] [9] [Source]
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