By John Moses
Fresh moves are under way in Nigeria’s political landscape as a coalition of influential figures intensifies efforts to persuade former President Goodluck Jonathan to return to frontline politics ahead of the 2027 general election.
Sources close to the negotiations describe the approach as a “well-coordinated” plan involving political associates and allies of the former leader. Among the key figures reportedly spearheading the discussions are former Senate President David Mark and the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai. The pair are expected to meet Jonathan this week to advance the conversation.
David Mark is tipped to become acting national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), one of the parties the coalition may adopt as its political vehicle.
Insiders say the renewed effort includes brokering peace among political heavyweights in Jonathan’s home state of Bayelsa. Two former governors and a senior figure from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) have reportedly reconciled after years of political rivalry, as part of plans to create a united front.
Despite previous declarations by Jonathan’s wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, that her husband would not contest in 2027, coalition members are said to remain optimistic. “The NDDC official, who was formerly chief of staff to one of the ex-governors, played a key role in bridging the divide,” a source explained.
Complicating the landscape, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri is reportedly planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Diri is believed to have secured the backing of the State House of Assembly but has faced resistance from federal lawmakers representing Bayelsa, who refuse to switch parties.
The lawmakers, including Senator Henry Seriake Dickson and several House of Representatives members, are reportedly wary of the move, seeing it as a threat to their political careers.
Jonathan’s long-time allies in Bayelsa’s influential Green Movement, a group he founded around two decades ago, are also reportedly leaning towards the new coalition rather than aligning with the APC.
Observers note that the next few weeks could be crucial as negotiations continue, potentially shaping the contest for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027.
