Mounting Pressure on Former President
Former President Goodluck Jonathan faces escalating pressure to abandon his speculated 2027 presidential bid, as Niger Delta leaders intensify efforts to align him with President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
Tompolo Leads Regional Campaign
Ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) is spearheading the initiative to convince Jonathan against contesting. Accompanied by key associates including Tantita Security Services MD Kestin Pondi and APC’s Joshua Maciver, Tompolo visited Jonathan’s Otuoke residence in Bayelsa on October 16.
The extensive meeting marked Tompolo’s first public political appearance in nearly a decade. While initially framed as discussing Niger Delta security, insiders confirm the talks centered on persuading Jonathan to support Tinubu.
Tinubu’s Regional Gains Cited
“Niger Delta stakeholders recognize Tinubu’s contributions to the region,” a source close to Jonathan revealed. “Projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Ogoni land university approval demonstrate tangible development. The consensus is to back Tinubu’s second term.”
The source confirmed Jonathan had indeed been considering a presidential run before the intervention. Tompolo’s camp described the visit as historically significant, noting it was his first high-profile meeting in ten years.
Direct Appeal to Jonathan
Sources disclose Tompolo delivered a blunt message: Niger Deltans no longer support Jonathan’s presidential ambition and prefer Tinubu’s continuation until 2031. He advised Jonathan to follow examples set by his wife Patience Jonathan and Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, who both endorse Tinubu.
“Tompolo warned that challengers cannot defeat Tinubu in a fair contest given his performance,” a meeting participant stated. He emphasized southern Nigeria’s preference for continuity.
Jonathan’s Response
Jonathan reportedly promised to carefully consider the counsel without needing to join APC. Publicly, however, he characterized the discussions as focusing on Niger Delta stability: “Tompolo plays vital roles in our people’s unity and pipeline protection,” Jonathan told press.
Tompolo maintains influence through the ‘PBAT Door-to-Door Movement’ promoting Tinubu’s re-election and a renewed pipeline surveillance contract worth billions of naira.
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