Residents of Taraba State have called on the leadership of the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) to prioritise national interest over personal ambitions and nominate former President Goodluck Jonathan as the party’s candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
In separate interviews conducted in Jalingo on Sunday, residents expressed confidence that Jonathan’s candidacy would position the ADC to defeat President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming election.
The residents, including Mr. Clement Yakubu Tyokyaa Tar, Haruna Buba, Sadiq Maigeri, and Sabastin Tsukwa, emphasised that Jonathan represents the best chance for the ADC to secure victory, particularly in the northern region.
They noted that northern voters would likely support a southern candidate like Jonathan, who is expected to serve a single term, respecting the informal political zoning arrangement that anticipates a northern candidate in 2031 after two terms of southern leadership.
“Fielding former President Goodluck Jonathan will ensure a stress-free victory against Tinubu. We urge ADC leaders to set aside personal interests and adopt strategies that will lead to electoral success. Nigerians are seeking a positive change distinct from the current administration’s policies,” they stated.
The residents cautioned that another southern candidate winning in 2027 could disrupt the zoning arrangement, potentially leading to demands for a second term and prolonging regional imbalances.
They described Jonathan as a unifying figure capable of addressing Nigeria’s challenges, restoring economic stability, and enabling families to thrive as they did during his presidency.
“We believe Jonathan is the only candidate the entire North will accept without reservation. His leadership would shift Nigeria’s narrative from hardship to prosperity, and his commitment to a single term aligns with the expectations of northern voters,” they stated.
The residents’ appeal underscores growing public sentiment for strategic candidate selection as political parties prepare for the 2027 elections.