By Joe Udo
BIRNIN KEBBI (CONVERSEER) – As political jostling intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Northern Support Group has thrown its full weight behind former President Goodluck Jonathan, urging the party to adopt him as its presidential candidate.
In a communiqué released after the group’s 8th strategic meeting held over two days in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, the coalition described Jonathan as “the only man capable of redeeming the PDP and restoring Nigeria’s unity.”
The meeting brought together PDP loyalists and affiliated support groups from all 19 northern states, signalling a growing momentum for Jonathan’s potential return to frontline politics under the PDP banner. The communiqué was jointly signed by the group’s Northern Coordinator, Yusuf Abubakar, and North-West Zonal Secretary, Adamu Narayi.
“We are not just endorsing Jonathan; we are launching a movement,” said Abubakar. “He is a symbol of peace, continuity, and national cohesion. He handed over power peacefully in 2015, never left the PDP, and remains the bridge between a divided nation.”
The group proposed an “aggressive and coordinated media campaign,” especially targeted at northern voters, to build support for Jonathan and reposition the PDP as a viable national alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Their endorsement comes amid internal divisions within the PDP over the 2027 ticket. While some factions are leaning toward a northern candidate or exploring younger alternatives, the Northern Support Group insisted there is “no going back on Jonathan,” rejecting concerns about his eligibility as “settled and resolved.”
The group also addressed growing tensions within the party, expressing frustration over what it described as sabotage by unnamed party elders and members of the National Working Committee (NWC).
“There are elements within the party structure who are actively collaborating with the APC-led government while pretending to build the PDP. These individuals are undermining reconciliation and must be held accountable,” the communiqué stated.
Despite these concerns, the group reaffirmed its support for PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum, commending his efforts at healing internal rifts but urging stronger action against those “engaging in anti-party activities and double loyalty.”
“We remain optimistic that the PDP is not beyond redemption,” Abubakar said. “With collective sacrifice and decisive leadership, the party can reclaim power both at the national level and in states currently under APC control.”
While the endorsement of Jonathan signals a clear direction for one faction of the party, it also deepens the ideological and strategic rifts within the PDP ahead of a critical election cycle.
Earlier media reports suggest the PDP remains divided, with several southern blocs and emerging youth wings pushing for new leadership rather than returning to past figures. However, for Jonathan’s northern backers, the answer to the PDP’s crisis is clear.
“Our loyalty is to the PDP, not to individuals,” the group concluded. “But if there is one man who can restore our lost glory and Nigeria’s unity, it is Goodluck Jonathan.”
Whether Jonathan will accept the call to run again remains to be seen, but the pressure from within his party is mounting — and the 2027 race is already taking shape.
