As political permutations ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify, a media group, First Daily, has announced plans to conduct a nationwide opinion poll to gauge the popularity and public acceptance of former President Goodluck Jonathan as a potential presidential candidate.

The survey, which will be conducted online, is designed to assess Jonathan’s political relevance and citizens’ perceptions of his leadership legacy nearly a decade after leaving office.

The organisation, in a statement by the publisher, Daniel Iworiso-Marskson, on Sunday, said the initiative reflects its commitment to participatory democracy and informed public discourse.

Although the former president has not publicly declared any intention to contest in 2027, political speculations about a possible comeback have continued to gain traction, with some influential figures reportedly urging him to rejoin the race.

Speaking on the rationale behind the exercise, Iworiso-Marskson said there is a growing public conversation surrounding Jonathan’s political future and the agitations in some quarters for him to run.

He said: “As an institution that thrives on data-driven journalism and objective analysis, we see it as our civic duty to create a credible platform where Nigerians can voice their thoughts on an issue that has significant national implications.
“We are aware that, as of today, the political future of the former president is one of the hottest political discussions across the country and even beyond. While arguments have been advanced in some quarters as to him being a credible alternative that will enrich and make the contest more interesting and competitive, there is the school of thought for him to remain a statesman.”

The outcome of the poll, he noted, will not only help clarify the level of grassroots and elite acceptance of Jonathan across the nation’s diverse political spectrum, but also provide valuable insights to political actors and the electorates.
“For Jonathan himself, the result of the poll will serve as an objective barometer of public sentiment, helping to shape his decision on whether or not to heed the growing calls for a comeback in 2027.”