Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s quiet consultations ahead of the 2027 presidential election may have hit a stumbling block following a crucial closed-door meeting with Senator David Mark, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in Abuja on Thursday.
According to Politics Nigeria, meeting, held at Mark’s residence, centered on Jonathan’s reported ambition to stage a comeback under the coalition party’s platform. However, the former leader did not receive the firm assurances he had hoped for regarding the ADC presidential ticket.
Mark Emphasizes Party Membership and Fair Primaries
During the meeting, Mark reportedly stated that Jonathan would not be handed an automatic ticket. Instead, he urged the former president to formally register with ADC and contest in the party’s primaries if he truly intended to run.
Jonathan, who sought a solid commitment from the party leadership, left without any guarantees. Both men, however, agreed to revisit the discussions at a later date, according to insiders familiar with the talks.
Other Aspirants Weighing Their Options
Jonathan is not alone in exploring ADC as a possible platform for 2027. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi are also said to be in discussions with ADC leaders.
Yet, all three aspirants remain cautious. None of them is ready to make full commitments without firm assurances of securing the ticket. Political analysts warn that an early move without guarantees could prove risky if any of them fails at the primaries.
“The concern is that entering ADC without solid backing could leave them stranded,” one source explained.
Atiku’s Influence Complicates Party Dynamics
Sources within ADC claim Atiku currently holds significant sway, controlling as much as 65–70 percent of the party structure. This dominance has made it difficult for party leaders to provide Obi or Jonathan with a clear pathway to the ticket.
Some insiders hinted that certain leaders proposed Obi as a possible running mate. However, no one has been willing to ask Atiku to step aside. Obi, for his part, insists that power should shift to the South for equity. He has also promised to serve only one term if elected.
Notably, Obi has reportedly told party leaders that he will not contest against Atiku in any primary, particularly in Adamawa State. This position effectively rules out both men sharing the same platform unless Atiku abandons his presidential ambition.
Jonathan Considered a Compromise—But Faces Northern Resistance
Within some ADC circles, Jonathan is seen as a compromise option since the constitution limits him to only one more term. This prospect appeals to some northern politicians. However, his traditional base in the South-East has shifted firmly behind Obi, weakening his prospects.
Additionally, Atiku’s dominance and the absence of a succession agreement complicate Jonathan’s chances. “He faces two main obstacles—securing the ticket and winning northern support,” a party insider noted.
PDP Seen as Unviable Option
Jonathan’s move toward ADC also signals a likely departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which he once led. His camp reportedly views the PDP as “toxic” due to its unresolved internal crises and mounting legal disputes.
For now, ADC remains his only practical option. But without a guaranteed ticket, Jonathan’s 2027 comeback attempt faces an uncertain future.
