The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement has declared that former President Goodluck Jonathan will not enjoy automatic endorsement for the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential ticket in 2027.
GHSM National Coordinator Abdulrazaq Hamzat emphasized that the PDP remains a democratic platform where no aspirant, including former presidents, should expect a free ride.
According to Hamzat, the PDP flagbearer will emerge through an open and transparent process in line with the Electoral Act 2022. “With due respect, Professor Jerry Gana is entitled to his enthusiasm about the return of former President Jonathan. However, only PDP delegates to the national convention can pick the party’s flagbearer, and ultimately, God Almighty will determine the outcome, not a few party stalwarts.”
Hamzat criticized Jonathan’s record, pointing to mismanagement of Nigeria’s diversity, rising ethnic and religious tensions, and his decision to support NATO’s intervention in Libya, which he described as a “strategic blunder” that destabilized the Sahel and aggravated insecurity across West Africa. “The Jonathan era cannot be painted as a perfect time. It was a period when the diversity of our nation began to be deeply mismanaged, rekindling ethnic tensions and religious bigotry.”
If Jonathan desires to return to Aso Rock, he must participate in an open and transparent primary, competing with other aspirants like Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim. Hamzat believes Nigerians deserve fresh leadership and a new vision to tackle the nation’s challenges, insisting that “the only way forward is forward, not backward”.
The GHSM leader also faulted Jonathan’s foreign policy record, particularly Nigeria’s decision to break ranks with the African Union and support NATO’s intervention in Libya. This move, he said, has had far-reaching consequences for the region.
In conclusion, Hamzat’s statement underscores the need for democratic processes within the PDP and the importance of transparent primaries. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, the party’s ability to showcase its democratic credentials will be crucial in determining its viability.