There are less than two years away from Nigeria’s next general election, and considering that many candidates have expressed interest in vying for the presidential seat, it is not surprising that political parties weigh their chances before the election.
However, as always, the presidency has attracted the most attention. So far, the names of many potential competitors have been circulated in the media, but in fact, only a few have a chance to survive the first (primary) stage. Interestingly, one of the politicians listed as a possible challenger is former president, Goodluck Jonathan.
Political analysts noticed that Jonathan has become more popular in politics (this is due to people reminiscing on his 6-year stint at the helm of affairs), and he also enjoys a high degree of recognition among major political groups. They believe that if the former president chooses to run for office again, he will become a major player.
After he was elected Vice President in 2007, he took over the office of President in 2010 following the death of President Umar Musa Yar’Adua. Jonathan, who hails from the Ijaw minority in south-central Nigeria upset the apple cart by going on to win the 2011 General elections to the displeasure of many Northerners.
It is believed that some northerners support the former president because no matter what the outcome is, his term of office cannot exceed four years, and consequently power will return to the north. At the end of last year, a delegation of Northern Governors led by Yobe Governor, Mai Mala Buni visited Jonathan.
It is expected that support groups will soon begin to campaign clandestinely. Although Jonathan, like other aspirants, refuses to say whether he will participate.
Time will tell.
