Tompolo, Niger Delta leaders pressure Jonathan to abandon 2027 presidential bid, back Tinubu

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly under mounting pressure from influential Niger Delta leaders to drop any plans to contest the 2027 presidential election and instead support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

Vanguard gathered that the push is being led by ex-militant leader Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, alongside other prominent figures from the region.

According to insider sources, Tompolo visited Jonathan at his Otuoke residence in Bayelsa State on October 16, accompanied by Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), and Mr Joshua Maciver, the APC Deputy Governorship candidate in the 2023 Bayelsa election, among others.

Contrary to reports that the visit was centred on peace and security discussions, sources confirmed it was “purely political,” with Tompolo appealing to Jonathan to shelve any plans of returning to Aso Rock.

“Tompolo told the former president that the prevailing mood across the Niger Delta does not favour his presidential ambition,” a source familiar with the meeting disclosed. “He also explained that the region’s political sentiment now leans towards supporting President Tinubu’s second-term bid.”

Tompolo, who leads the PBAT Door-2-Door Movement — a grassroots campaign group working for Tinubu’s re-election — reportedly warned that Jonathan may face resistance from within his own region if he decides to run.

According to another insider, Jonathan listened attentively and acknowledged the concerns raised, promising to reflect on the advice before taking a public position.

While Jonathan has not formally declared interest in the 2027 race, his name has continued to feature prominently in political discussions as a potential contender. The latest development suggests increasing pressure within the Niger Delta to align with the incumbent administration ahead of the next general election.