Jonathan Hosts David Mark, Babachir Lawal, ADC Leaders in High-Stakes Political Meeting

By Our Correspondent
ABUJA — Political intrigues deepened Thursday night as former President Goodluck Jonathan held a closed-door meeting with African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman, David Mark, and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, in Abuja.

The high-level parley, which also had ADC spokesman Malam Bolaji Abdullahi in attendance, came just hours after the party’s leadership concluded a marathon strategy session.

While details of the talks remained closely guarded as of press time, a top source disclosed that the meeting was part of ADC’s ongoing consultations with influential political figures ahead of the 2027 general elections. The source hinted that the discussions centered on strengthening the coalition’s political machinery and exploring possible alignments.

The development comes amid renewed pressure from within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has been wooing Jonathan to return and possibly fly its presidential flag in 2027. Barely two weeks ago, Jonathan had also met with Labour Party’s Peter Obi, sparking speculation of possible cross-party alliances.

Beyond the flurry of political maneuverings, Jonathan once again underscored his reputation as Africa’s leading voice on democracy.

In a goodwill message posted on his X handle, the former president congratulated the people of Malawi on their recently concluded peaceful elections, describing the outcome as “a powerful testament to the resilience of its citizens and the maturity of its political system.”

He lauded President-elect Peter Arthur Mutharika for his victory, and praised outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera for his rare sportsmanship in conceding defeat even before the final tally was announced.

“As Africans, our democracy endures when those we choose lead with integrity, humility, and respect for institutional processes,” Jonathan wrote. “May this moment in Malawi inspire other nations to uphold the sanctity of the vote, to accept outcomes gracefully, and to always put the interests of the people above political ambition.”

He further urged the President-elect to be magnanimous in victory and sustain the spirit of unity and tolerance beyond the elections.

Jonathan’s intervention, coming at a time of heightened political realignments in Nigeria, is already being read in many quarters as a subtle signal of his growing influence in shaping the direction of 2027 politics.