PDP Chieftain Backs Jonathan’s Return, Calls for Unity Ahead of 2027 Elections
PDP Chieftain Backs Jonathan’s Return, Calls for Unity Ahead of 2027 Elections
As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) struggles to position itself as a strong opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a prominent chieftain of the party, Chief Conrad Terhide Utaan, has called for the return of former President Goodluck Jonathan to play a unifying role.
Utaan, a national chairmanship aspirant from Benue State and ally of the G-5 governors, said during an interview that the PDP has reached a critical point where genuine reconciliation is needed to reunite its factions.
“We need an influential leader with the stature of Goodluck Jonathan to achieve this,” Utaan stated. “Our party requires healing, and Jonathan’s leadership offers the stability and credibility to rebuild trust, both internally and with Nigerians.”
Reflecting on the 2015 elections, Utaan noted that Jonathan was heavily criticised at the time, paving the way for APC’s victory. However, he argued that the current political climate has highlighted the need for Jonathan’s leadership style to strengthen democratic institutions.
“Jonathan’s potential candidacy in 2027 is not just about him or the PDP; it’s about creating a stronger system for future generations,” he added.
Addressing reports of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s alleged defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and speculations about Peter Obi’s possible return to the PDP, Utaan said reconciliation and inclusiveness must remain the party’s priority.
He also urged the PDP to carefully manage its internal disputes, including tensions involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as the party prepares for its November 2025 convention.
According to Utaan, the PDP’s chances in the 2027 elections will depend largely on its ability to regain public trust by addressing the pressing issues facing Nigerians. Failure to do so, he warned, would leave the opposition weakened against the APC.
