The Digest:
Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s potential 2027 presidential bid has fractured the South-South PDP into opposing camps, with some backing his return and others dismissing it as unconstitutional. The debate intensifies as stakeholders weigh his eligibility against a constitutional clause limiting tenures.
Key Points:
- Jonathan’s reported ambition divides PDP chapters in Bayelsa, Rivers, Edo, and Delta
- Edo PDP supports his candidacy, calling him a “breath of fresh air.”
- Rivers PDP factions split: Wike loyalists oppose him, Fubara allies endorse him
- Constitutional doubts persist under Sections 137(3) and 182(3) on tenure limits
- Jonathan’s aides cite a 2022 court ruling affirming his eligibility
- PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman Bala Mohammed met with Jonathan to discuss his return
- Bayelsa PDP remains neutral, awaiting Governor Diri’s position
Sources: The PUNCH, PDP Stakeholders
