The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has clarified that former President Goodluck Jonathan remains a bona fide member of the party, despite ongoing speculations about his political future.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Wednesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, dismissed reports suggesting Jonathan had resigned.
“President Jonathan is still a member of this party because he has not resigned,” Ologunagba said. He, however, declined to comment on whether former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, was considering a return to the PDP.
On the 2027 presidential race, Ologunagba stressed that the PDP has “eminently qualified Nigerians” within its ranks, describing Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, as a “poster boy” for the party due to his performance and leadership appeal.
Jonathan Calls for Electoral Overhaul
Meanwhile, former President Jonathan used a separate platform in Abuja to demand far-reaching reforms in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Represented by Ann Iyonu, Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Jonathan spoke at the National Action Plan for Electoral Reform Dialogue, organised by the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought.
He acknowledged democratic gains since 1999 but argued that Nigeria’s electoral process still suffers from loopholes that weaken democracy.
“If we are truly committed to democracy, we must reform the process to reflect the will of the people and the principles of justice, accountability, and inclusion,” Jonathan said.
Proposed Reforms
The former president outlined a series of reforms, including:
Independent Registrar of Political Parties: To enforce party discipline and curb opportunistic defections. Jonathan suggested granting the registrar powers to declare defectors’ seats vacant, citing Kenya and Malawi as examples.
Reform of INEC Appointments: He proposed an independent screening panel, comprising judiciary, civil society, academia, and trade unions, to nominate candidates for INEC chairman, reducing perceptions of bias.
Timely Resolution of Election Petitions: Jonathan warned against allowing officials with unresolved court cases to assume office, urging streamlined judicial processes and fewer courts handling gubernatorial and presidential disputes.
“Justice delayed in elections is justice denied, not just for the candidates but for the electorate,” he stressed.
Beyond Partisan Politics
Jonathan concluded by emphasizing that electoral reforms must serve Nigeria’s democracy, not individual ambitions.
“Democracy is not just about casting ballots. It is about building institutions, promoting accountability, and protecting citizens’ rights,” he said. “These reforms are not partisan—they are patriotic.”
