ABUJA, NIGERIA — A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party has claimed that former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has already obtained a presidential nomination form ahead of the 2027 general elections, adding a fresh twist to growing political conversations surrounding the former leader’s possible return to frontline politics.
The claim was made by Umar Sani, a former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to former Vice President Namadi Sambo, during an appearance on Trust TV on Tuesday.
His comments have reignited discussions over Jonathan’s political future amid increasing consultations and interactions involving the former president across different political circles.
Although Jonathan has not publicly declared any presidential ambition or confirmed a political platform for a possible contest, Sani argued that the former president’s actions indicate serious political interest.
He dismissed suggestions that the PDP was attempting to leverage Jonathan’s popularity merely to strengthen the party’s public image or political standing.
According to him, political actions often speak louder than public statements, arguing that acquiring a nomination form represents a significant step that reflects genuine interest in seeking elective office.
Sani further claimed that Jonathan had already secured the necessary forms and suggested that a public submission could follow.
His remarks also touched on legal challenges surrounding Jonathan’s eligibility to seek the presidency again, expressing confidence that pending legal actions would not create obstacles.
He argued that previous judicial decisions had already addressed issues relating to the former president’s eligibility and maintained that attempts to reopen the matter would face legal difficulties.
According to him, only a higher judicial authority could overturn earlier interpretations regarding the issue.
Sani also referred to a pending matter before Justice Peter Lifu and suggested that the case could be dismissed when proceedings resume.
He further rejected suggestions that individuals promoting Jonathan’s name were doing so for personal political relevance.
Instead, he argued that many Nigerians still maintain emotional attachment and positive memories associated with Jonathan’s administration.
Political observers note that Jonathan continues to maintain a unique position within Nigerian politics years after leaving office.
The former president served between 2010 and 2015 before losing re-election to former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Since leaving office, Jonathan has largely focused on diplomatic assignments, election observation activities, mediation efforts, and peace-building initiatives across Africa while remaining largely outside active partisan politics.
Analysts say that continued speculation surrounding his political future reflects his enduring relevance within national conversations and could shape political alignments as preparations for the 2027 elections gradually intensify.
As discussions continue, attention is expected to remain on whether Jonathan will publicly clarify his position regarding the growing speculation over a possible return to presidential politics.
