Close associates of former President Goodluck Jonathan have dismissed reports suggesting that he may contest the 2027 presidential election, insisting there is no indication that he plans to return to the ballot.
The associates described the claims as politically driven speculation, alleging that his name is being used by certain groups to advance factional interests and create confusion within the political space.
According to them, Jonathan has not engaged in any form of consultation, mobilisation, or political activity consistent with someone preparing to run for office. One source said that if the former president were interested in the race, he would have been actively involved in nationwide consultations and open political engagements.
They further argued that a serious presidential aspirant would have publicly declared interest, obtained nomination forms personally or through clear channels, and participated in party screening processes—none of which, they said, Jonathan has done.
The associates maintained that the former president has not informed them or his political circle of any intention to contest, adding that discussions around a 2027 ambition were unfounded. One of the sources also described the recurring linkage of Jonathan to election cycles as a familiar political pattern used to generate attention during election seasons.
However, the Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) maintained a different position, insisting that Jonathan remains its presidential candidate for 2027 despite his silence.
The faction’s Publicity Secretary argued that Jonathan’s quiet approach aligns with his political style, describing his silence as “strategic” and suggesting that he has not disowned the claims made on his behalf.
