COUNTDOWN TO 2015: President Jonathan To Clarify Presidential Ambition Next Week

Next Thursday, Nigeria's President Goodluck Jonathan is expected to state his intentions regarding 2015 Presidential elections before the National Executive Council (NEC) of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

The PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh confirmed summonning a NEC meeting on Thursday, but did not disclose any further details. However, a member of the National Working Committee of the PDP revealed that the NEC will be formally briefed of President Jonathan's 2015 plans.

"President Jonathan will formally table his reelection bid and will seek the endorsement of the NEC to be given the opportunity to fly the flag of the party once again," the source said.

"The President has personally requested for this NEC as he intends to use the opportunity to clear the ground concerning the crisis in the party, the leadership of Tukur and his ambition to remain in power till 2019.

"Most Nigerians are aware that the President has the intention of remaining in power as far as the constitution permits and he has resolved after due consultations with his immediate family to also seek the permission of the party leaders to continue the good works he is doing.

"He will put the records straight and will ignore the opposition mounted by a segment of the elite who are bent on intimidating him out of power."

That day is also going to be fateful for the PDP's National Chairman Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, as the party is to pass a vote of confidence on him.

A Presidency source also disclosed that Mr. Tukur has the "approval" of President Jonathan to remain in office, and added he is confident that the National Chairman will navigate the party through the current crisis.

"The NEC will pass a vote of confidence on Tukur, and he will be mandated to continue with the reforms in the party and to also ensure that discipline is instilled in all cadres of the party.

"Though, the consequences are there to see but the party is determined to weed off members who are larger than the party," the source said.