By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Close associates of former President Goodluck Jonathan have dismissed claims that he plans to contest the 2027 presidential election. They spoke on Tuesday amid growing speculation fueled by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The associates said Jonathan has not declared any interest, purchased nomination forms, or joined any presidential campaign activities. They also revealed that he would soon issue a statement to clarify his position.
Associates Reject Claims by PDP Faction
The controversy began after the PDP faction led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN) repeatedly claimed that Jonathan had registered as a member of the group.
The faction further alleged that the former president purchased expression of interest and nomination forms for the 2027 presidential election. It also claimed that he completed and submitted the forms. However, the group did not provide evidence to support the allegations.
In addition, the faction reportedly screened and cleared Jonathan in absentia. On Saturday, it went further by announcing him as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
However, Jonathan’s associates described the development as politically motivated. They insisted that some individuals were using his name to pursue personal interests.
Jonathan Never Discussed Presidential Ambition
One associate said he recently met with Jonathan and discussed the issue.
“I met with him recently, and he never mentioned anything of that nature. In fact, when I jokingly asked him about it, he responded, ‘Under which party?’ and we all laughed,” the source said.
According to him, Jonathan never informed members of his political structure about any intention to seek re-election.
He argued that serious presidential aspirants usually declare their intentions publicly and begin consultations early.
Turaki Group Accused of Using Jonathan’s Name
The source alleged that the Turaki group was leveraging its relationship with Jonathan to advance its agenda.
He noted that Turaki served as Minister of Special Duties during Jonathan’s administration and remains one of his loyal associates.
According to him, Jonathan neither purchased nor completed any nomination form.
“Some people simply arranged a form and claimed it was for him. He never filled it, submitted it, or presented himself for screening,” the source said.
He added that Jonathan never made a public declaration of interest, making the claims difficult to believe.
Jonathan’s Silence Described as Strategic
Meanwhile, the Publicity Secretary of the Turaki-led National Working Committee, Ini Ememobong, insisted that Jonathan remained the faction’s presidential candidate.
He argued that the former president’s silence was strategic rather than a sign of disinterest.
“Silence is strategic, just like communication is. Not everyone speaks aggressively. Some people act through silence,” Ememobong said.
He further claimed that Jonathan had never openly campaigned for public office and had always been invited to serve.
According to him, Jonathan has not disowned the process initiated by the faction.
Sources Say Jonathan Is Not Running
Despite the faction’s position, several sources close to the former president maintained that he has no intention of contesting the 2027 election.
One source argued that a presidential campaign requires planning, consultations, networking, and public engagement.
He referenced Jonathan’s recent statement that running for president is not a game of Ludo but a process that requires strategic preparation.
The source questioned why Jonathan would remain silent if he genuinely intended to run.
“A serious presidential aspirant identifies with a political party, engages stakeholders, and communicates plans to Nigerians,” he said.
According to him, Jonathan has not carried out any of those activities.
Former Minister Dismisses 2027 Ambition Reports
Another source, a former minister, described the reports as part of a recurring political trend.
He noted that Jonathan’s name often surfaces during election cycles despite his refusal to publicly engage in presidential campaigns.
“Those of us close to former President Goodluck Jonathan know that he is not running in the 2027 election,” the source said.
He added that if Jonathan were interested, members of his political structure would already be mobilising nationwide.
The former minister also stressed that Jonathan remains a respected statesman who served Nigeria for nearly six years as president.
According to him, the former leader would openly seek nomination if he intended to return to power.
Statement Expected Soon
Jonathan’s associates said Nigerians should ignore the speculation surrounding his alleged candidacy.
They maintained that the former president is not involved in any presidential campaign activities.
They also disclosed that a formal statement would soon clarify his position on the 2027 presidential election.
